The Chicago Bulls have had a solid summer league stint so far, winning their first game against the Toronto Raptors but losing to the Memphis Grizzlies in their second. But the wins and losses aren’t as important as the development process is; Chicago’s young players are getting valuable experience.
Javon Freeman-Liberty has stolen the show through the first two games, making his case for a two-way spot or even a standard roster slot. Dalen Terry has also been solid despite his poor shooting efficiency. But rookie Julian Phillips had a relatively poor debut in his first summer league game.
Phillips didn’t play against the Raptors because he hadn’t signed his contract yet, but when he debuted against Memphis, he struggled. After the game, Phillips stated he knows he can be better. (H/t Darnell Mayberry of The Athletic)
“My performance wasn’t what I wanted it to be,” he said. “I was kind of trying to figure out how the game was going to go. But I’m glad I got that game under me to see what it is so I can be better on the next outing.”
He also noted the adjustment he needs to make from the college level.
“It is a different game than college basketball,” he said. “But it’s something that you’ve just got to do. You’ve got to just play more so you can get accustomed to it.”
Heading into the rest of summer league, expect Phillips to play with confidence and strive for improvement.
