Ayo Dosunmu is ready for a breakout year for the Bulls

Ayo Dosunmu was born to be a Chicago Bull. Growing up in Chicago and attending The University of Illinois, the Chicago Bulls were already a part of Ayo’s life before he got drafted. Now he has the opportunity to play a significant role in his hometown team’s success.

Last year Ayo had a solid rookie campaign, averaging 8.8 points per game while shooting 52% from the field. Although the numbers may not look as glamorous on paper, they genuinely do not do Ayo’s game enough justice. Ayo’s quickness and ability to get in the lane and draw the defense as well as his play on the defensive end provided the Bulls with the spark they needed at times.

After injuries plagued the Chicago Bulls during the second half of the season, Ayo’s minutes increased and he was soon named the starter. All of Ayo’s numbers made a significant jump, averaging 11.1 points per game, 5.8 assists per game, 3.7 rebounds per game, and 1.2 steals per game during his span as a starter.

Showcasing that not only can he score but he can help his teammates get easier shots and also be an absolute menace on the defensive side of the basketball. Not many rookies can impact the game in such an abundant amount of ways as he has.

What type of spark will Ayo bring to the Chicago Bulls next season?

In an article written by NBC Sports Bulls Insider K.C. Johnson, here is what Bulls head coach Billy Donovan had to say on Ayo.

"“He’s got a certain kind of makeup that I think is really special, he’s ultra-competitive and he has unbelievable confidence and belief in himself. But it’s not cross-the-line arrogant. That’s really a hard combination. He just is fearless. And he’s got a way about him with the way he competes defensively. He’s not afraid.”"

Looking back at last season, it is evident that Ayo’s play was trending upwards. Although there are several areas of his game that he can improve on, such as developing a more consistent shot. Ayo’s future still looks very promising.

With the return of Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso, it is likely that Ayo will provide his spark off the bench. The Bulls bench ranked 26th in the league in scoring, the bottom of the barrel. Having Ayo lead that 2nd unit will be pivotal for the Bulls’ success and his own breakthrough.

The confidence that Ayo gained from being in the starting lineup towards the latter end of last season, will help him take that next step. I would not be surprised if Ayo was in the running for the Sixth Man of the Year Award; his athleticism and willingness to commit on the defensive end will give the Bulls an immense boost off the bench.

Check out some clutch moments from Ayo last season.

Watch out for Ayo next year, with a healthy Bulls squad and him at the forefront of the bench, Ayo may very well turn some heads.