Inside The Nets

How Royce O'Neale Ignited Nets' Comeback against the Bulls

The Nets have played all kinds of games this season, but their comebacks have been the most impressive.

Peter Sunjic

© John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
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The Brooklyn Nets immediately had a lot of trouble in the first quarter of the game against the Chicago Bulls. They went down 30-9 at one point as both their defense and offense were struggling. However, Royce O’Neale was a spark plug for the Nets as he was effective on both sides of the ball in the second quarter.

He provided the energy that the Nets needed to have a strong second quarter, outscoring the Bulls 41 to 19. 

The team embarked on an impressive run, with Royce actively contributing to nearly every play by securing rebounds, setting screens, creating floor space, and, of course, making crucial shots.

“It started on the defensive end, getting stops. Bring a lot of energy whether I’m getting steals, rebounds, getting assists for guys and they’re finding me back when I’m open,” O’Neale said in his post-game presser. “These guys gave me a lot of confidence to keep shooting.”

O’Neale has been the unsung hero of Brooklyn

So far in the 2023/24 season, Mikal Bridges or Cameron Thomas have been talked about as the biggest stars on the Nets. However, the most impressive part of what the Nets are doing this season has been their depth. They have been dealing with plenty of injuries to start the year but they remained competitive through it.

Coach Jacque Vaughn seeks the level of play displayed by the team—playing with pace and superb defense. Royce's impactful contributions, including stops, plays, and motivation, deserve recognition, witnessed notably against the Bulls.

The bench continues to step up for the Nets

While O'Neale started the game against the Bulls, he has been one of the most reliable players off the bench beforehand. He loves getting into the game and showcasing that he can make contributions on both ends of the floor, especially with his three-point shooting and spacing.

So far this season, he has well-rounded stats, scoring 7.9 points, grabbing 5.3 rebounds, and making 3.2 assists per game. To add onto that, he is shooting 39.6% from beyond the arc, which mostly comes off his spot-up shooting and his trademark shot fake that Nets fans love.

Royce isn't the sole bench standout; Lonnie Walker IV eyes the Sixth Man of the Year award, and Day’Ron Sharpe steadily evolves as a reliable backup center. The Nets boast a promising roster, and now, they await a full recovery from injuries.

GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs Toronto Raptors

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Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

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