The Chicago Bulls won their first preseason game 124-117 over the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday. Caleb Wilson got his feet wet in the pros for the first time.
Overall, Wilson finished with a team-high 15 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists. His resolve was also tested as he faced the always-aggressive Dillon Brooks.
Although Wilson performed well, Brooks often got the better of him, per Ross Pins of Swish Theory. At times, Brooks forced Wilson into turnaround jumpers that turned into airballs. However, head coach Tiago Splitter said it was a lesson learned about playing in the big leagues.
“He wanted to prove something to Caleb, and he learned a great lesson from him,” Splitter said to K.C. Johnson of The Chicago Sports Network. “The way this league is, aggressive.”
Over the course of the game, Brooks lived up to par and played with a chip on his shoulder. At one point exchanging words with Matas Buzelis and Buddy Hield. In the end, Brooks finished with a game-high 24 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists.
Although Wilson is the one expected to do big things, he wasn't alone. In all, 7 Chicago players scored in double figures. Buzelis scored 14 points and added 3 rebounds. Norman Powell added 14 points along with 3 3-pointers. Tobe Awaka finished with a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds. Leonard Miller scored 14 points, including 2 3-pointers.
Article Continues BelowAdditionally, Jalen Smith scored 13 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Finally, Dailyn Swain added 10 points and 6 assists. Altogether, Chicago gelled very nicely.
The Bulls will play the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday at 7:00 pm CST/8:00 pmm EST.