“He’s Got That Giannis Fire”: Ayo Dosunmu Declares Rookie Matas Buzelis the Bulls’ Hidden Superstar in Waiting — Says His Rise Could Change Chicago Overnight
In an NBA era driven by hype, highlight reels, and next-generation superstars, it’s not every day a veteran teammate throws down the gauntlet and makes a bold proclamation. But that’s exactly what Chicago Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu just did — and he isn’t backing down.
Speaking about Bulls rookie Matas Buzelis, the Chicago native dropped what might be the most explosive comparison of the offseason, likening the 6’10” forward’s potential to that of two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“I know Giannis is a Hall of Famer, top 20, top 30 player [all time],” Dosunmu said. “But Matas has a chance to really dominate the game like that.”
Ayo wasn’t just offering the usual praise about Buzelis’ high motor or good attitude. He was forecasting a possible franchise-altering trajectory — a leap from top prospect to future face of the league.
“He loves the work. A tremendous worker,” Ayo added. “He’s 6-10, 6-11, and as he continues to get stronger, continues to get in the weight room, he’s only going to get bigger.”
The Buzz About Buzelis: From Hype to Hardwood
Matas Buzelis, the former G League Ignite standout, came into the league surrounded by intrigue. A Chicago native himself, the rookie brings a rare blend of size, skill, and fluidity that had scouts buzzing long before the draft.
At 6’10” with guard-like handles, a smooth shooting stroke, and the instincts of a seasoned pro, Buzelis has drawn comparisons to lanky creators like Kevin Durant and Brandon Ingram — but Ayo sees something even deeper. Something relentless. Something… Giannis-esque.
“He’s already asking questions. He’s in early, staying late. He doesn’t want to just play — he wants to be great,” Ayo said.
Could Buzelis Be the Star Chicago Has Been Waiting For?
It’s been a long search for the Bulls. Ever since the departure of Derrick Rose and the decline of the “Three Alphas” era, Chicago has been a team in flux — competitive at times, but still hunting for that true cornerstone.
They’ve had talented pieces in Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Nikola Vučević. But none quite fit the mold of a franchise-changing phenom — the kind that alters expectations and makes teams circle their calendars for matchups.
If Buzelis develops into even a fraction of what Dosunmu sees, the Bulls may have quietly pulled off the steal of the draft. And if he hits his ceiling?
“Chicago’s future could change overnight,” one Eastern Conference scout admitted. “He’s that kind of wild card.”
Ayo’s Faith, the City’s Hope, and the League’s Blind Spot
Dosunmu, more than anyone, understands the weight of Chicago basketball expectations. A University of Illinois legend and a lifelong Bulls fan, he knows what it means to carry the flag in a city steeped in basketball tradition.
So for him to place this kind of belief in a rookie — it’s not just optimism. It’s a signal.
“People aren’t talking about him enough,” Ayo said. “But they will be.”
That’s a warning. To the media. To opposing defenses. To the entire NBA.
The Giannis comparison isn’t about where Buzelis is now — it’s about where he could be. The fire. The commitment. The freakish body and hunger to work.
