DeMar DeRozan on settling for a three-pointer at the end of regulation vs. the Orlando Magic

"In situations like that, especially a tie game, you just want to try to get a good look."

© Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports

Chicago Bulls wingman DeMar DeRozan has built a reputation for being one of the NBA’s best closers—someone who won’t cower from the responsibility the game hangs in the balance. But sometimes, even the most clutch players can’t bring it when the moment arises.

In a recent game against the Orlando Magic, DeRozan found himself in one of those situations. The game was tied, and only a few seconds left on the clock. Instead of driving to the basket or looking for a closer shot, Deebo settled for a three-pointer that ultimately missed, sending the game into overtime. Chicago couldn’t get anything going in the extra session, ultimately falling 114-108.

Afterward, DeRozan reflected on his decision, explaining, “In situations like that, especially a tie game, you just want to try to get a good look.”

Tough Orlando defense

Deebo set the stage for him to close the game out with another heroic shot. After trailing by five with a minute and 32 seconds left, the Bulls had tied the game after an and-one by DeRozan. After Magic forward Paolo Banchero missed the potential go-ahead basket, the Bulls gathered the loose ball and handed the reins to DeRozan, who had tough defender Jonathan Isaac on him.

“We were just trying to get a switch. I know Isaac was on me. I was trying to see if they’ll hopefully mess up on a switch with (using) Cole. It is a feel. That last regulation shot we got a stop. Tie game. Before that got the and-1. Coby struggled, missed a lot of shots that he normally makes,” DeRozan shared.

“I came off and just lined it up. It felt good. It was back rim.”

Fought hard but came up short in OT.

DeMar DeRozan: 28 points
Nikola Vučević: 26 points and 17 rebounds pic.twitter.com/KDZcU02BcY

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) February 11, 2024

Not force up a bad shot

It was a situation that most Bulls fans have grown accustomed to. Deebo getting the ball in a one-on-one situation. However, the results this season have been a mixed bag. Given what the defense had given him, DeRozan explained what went through his mind during that final play in regulation.

“Not try to force to get in there. I at least wanted to give us a shot. I know if I try to get in there (lane), they’re long, 6-foot-7, 6-foot-8, 6-foot-9. So just get a good look. It is tough. Nothing we can do about it now, but go out there and get ready for Atlanta. Beat Atlanta, move on to the next one.”

What a finish! 😮‍💨@NBCSChicago | @DeMar_DeRozan pic.twitter.com/MEvhz7p1sX

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) February 11, 2024

The Chicago Bulls fall to the Orlando Magic in overtime