A little self-promotion here, but I spoke with Jimmy Butler at practice today about his expanded role in his second year. Amazing to think that four years ago he was in Tomball, TX as the second best player on his junior college team.
http://www.csnchicago.com/basketball-chicago-bulls/bulls-talk/Butler-looking-to-step-up-in-second-year?blockID=784927&feedID=10332&awid=9151701948839144635-914
Nice piece. Looking forward to seeing Jimmy on the court more in 2012-13.
The article confirms why I (and many others) think Jimmy is going to take a big step this year. IMO he has always had more talent than he has shown on the court. His confidence has never been on equal footing as his talent. Now it sounds like it is.
"I can lead by example," Butler said. "The vets know what they have to do, so they look at me...you tell them where to go, you show them the ropes. And I'm comfortable with that. I know it. I know I have the confidence that I know it."
Not a stellar game for him on Tuesday, but that's why they play preseason. I think he's going to log major minutes on one of the most marketable teams in the NBA. Nothing but good things for Jimmy and MU. Couldn't ask for a better guy to represent the school.
Sound like anybody we know???:
"I'm not Ronnie Brewer, not saying that in a bad way, but I can only be what I am and that's [to] guard, that's hit open shots."