Bulls Honor Second 'Ring of Honor' Class Without Drama, Unlike Inaugural Ceremony Two Years Ago
The Chicago Bulls kicked off the public celebration for their second "Ring of Honor" class on Saturday, with former assistant coach Johnny Bach, former players Bill Cartwright, Horace Grant, John Paxson, and Norm Van Lier, as well as long-time play-by-play radio and television announcer Neil Funk, being inducted into the prestigious group.
In stark contrast to the inaugural ceremony two years ago, when Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen decided not to attend, this year's celebration was marked by a notable absence of drama. Even Dennis Rodman showed up on time, unlike he did during the first class induction.
Coach Billy Donovan praised the latest class, saying that it's "awesome" to see their accomplishments recognized. He highlighted the contributions of Bach, who played a key role in developing the team's defensive strategy under Phil Jackson, as well as Cartwright, Grant, and Paxson, who were all instrumental figures during the Bulls' three-peat championship wins.
As for the current team, Donovan acknowledged that injuries have been a setback. Several players, including Matas Buzelis, Patrick Williams, Isaac Okoro, Kevin Huerter, and Dalen Terry, missed the game against the Wizards due to various ailments. However, with the Bulls' roster currently depleted, rookie Noa Essengue earned his first rotation minutes in the NBA.
While Donovan acknowledged that scoring might be an area where Essengue needs improvement, he expressed confidence in the rookie's defensive potential and rebounding ability. With his length and athleticism, Essengue is expected to excel on the glass, while also using his speed and agility to cut through defenses and score in transition. As for his shooting, Donovan noted that it will likely take time to develop.
The Bulls' next game is a back-to-back against the Wizards, with the team looking to regroup and refocus after a tough loss to Miami on Friday night.
The Chicago Bulls kicked off the public celebration for their second "Ring of Honor" class on Saturday, with former assistant coach Johnny Bach, former players Bill Cartwright, Horace Grant, John Paxson, and Norm Van Lier, as well as long-time play-by-play radio and television announcer Neil Funk, being inducted into the prestigious group.
In stark contrast to the inaugural ceremony two years ago, when Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen decided not to attend, this year's celebration was marked by a notable absence of drama. Even Dennis Rodman showed up on time, unlike he did during the first class induction.
Coach Billy Donovan praised the latest class, saying that it's "awesome" to see their accomplishments recognized. He highlighted the contributions of Bach, who played a key role in developing the team's defensive strategy under Phil Jackson, as well as Cartwright, Grant, and Paxson, who were all instrumental figures during the Bulls' three-peat championship wins.
As for the current team, Donovan acknowledged that injuries have been a setback. Several players, including Matas Buzelis, Patrick Williams, Isaac Okoro, Kevin Huerter, and Dalen Terry, missed the game against the Wizards due to various ailments. However, with the Bulls' roster currently depleted, rookie Noa Essengue earned his first rotation minutes in the NBA.
While Donovan acknowledged that scoring might be an area where Essengue needs improvement, he expressed confidence in the rookie's defensive potential and rebounding ability. With his length and athleticism, Essengue is expected to excel on the glass, while also using his speed and agility to cut through defenses and score in transition. As for his shooting, Donovan noted that it will likely take time to develop.
The Bulls' next game is a back-to-back against the Wizards, with the team looking to regroup and refocus after a tough loss to Miami on Friday night.