The Bulls' third-year forward has willed his NBA dreams into existence dating back to childhood.
The Chicago Bulls are hoping for a playoff berth this season, and to witness the continued growth of forward Matas Buzelis under new head coach Tiago Splitter.
Buzelis is still one of the NBA's younger players but hasn't been afraid to mix it up with NBA superstars so far during his career, including Laker superstar Luka Doncic, whom he sent a warning to on Thursday.
Buzelis grew up watching and loving NBA basketball, including two players with whom he spoke on a recent podcast, Toronto Raptors legend Vince Carter and Orlando Magic legend Tracy McGrady.
The Bulls' rising star offered a glimpse into his childhood years, during which he emulated the famous NBA cousins, while also sharing his love for the city of Chicago, Chicago musical artists, and future plans of staying with Splitter's team.
Jul 24, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls player Matas Buzelis throws out a ceremonial pitch before the game between the Chicago White Sox and the Houston Astros at Rate Field. Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images It All Started With a Mini-Hoop
Buzelis said he used to emulate Carter and McGrady on his mini-hoop as a kid, a revelation he made during the 'Cousins' podcast with the two former NBA superstars.
"I was a big fan of you two," he told the famous duo.
"I always wanted to fly when I was younger. I used to watch you guys a lot, and I'm not even trying to say this for the podcast's sake.
"You two were (players) I used to watch, pull up the top 10 clips, then I'd go outside on the mini-hoop and try to do the same thing you guys would do," Buzelis said on the duo's podcast.
Buzelis has surprised onlookers with his dunking skills so far during his two NBA seasons, culminating in a dunk contest appearance last year and a chance at bigger and better things, perhaps an All-Star Game appearance, in year three.
Bulls Mean "Everything" to Third-Year Forward
Buzelis said that the Bulls' franchise and the opportunity he's been given are extremely important to him heading into year three.
He's deeply embedded in Chicago culture, having grown up in the suburb of Willowbrook, Illinois, and said he listens to mostly Chicago based rappers and musical artists on the way to the United Center before each game.
Buzelis has been loving the Bulls experience so far as one of the team's most promising players.
"I can't even put it into words, it's unbelievable," Buzelis said. "To put on the Bulls uniform and represent the city, it means everything to me. I want to bring them a championship. I can't even imagine playing anywhere else," he added.
"I'm going to take advantage of all my opportunities that are given to me. I work hard. I've worked extremely hard to show the results.
"Sometimes, you might not have them, but it's about getting up the next morning with a smile on your face."
The former G-Leaguer and first round pick is focusing on what he can control as the Bulls get ready for a pivotal season with Splitter at the helm, steering their ship forward through a challenging yet exciting time.
"That's all you can control at the end of the day. I get up every morning with the intention to be the best player I can be," Buzelis said.
"I know I can do something special; it's just a matter of time."
