DJ Steward Joins Chicago Bulls on Two-Way Contract
The Chicago Bulls have secured the local talent of DJ Steward, signing him to a two-way contract. Steward, a native of Chicago, brings his dynamic scoring prowess and determined spirit back home, marking an important step in his professional basketball journey.
Steward's impressive performances in the Las Vegas Summer League have not gone unnoticed. Averaging 19.3 points per game, the guard proved he is a player capable of making a significant impact. Notably, he demonstrated his scoring ability with a standout performance, dropping 37 points in an overtime victory against the Atlanta Hawks. This showcase of talent undoubtedly played a crucial role in the Bulls' decision to offer him a two-way contract.
The 21-year-old's path to the NBA has been anything but straightforward. After going undrafted as a one-and-done player from Duke, Steward's professional journey commenced in the G-League with the Stockton Kings. His resilience and adaptability were further tested when he made a detour to the Canadian Elite Basketball League to play for the Vancouver Bandits. Upon returning to the G-League, Steward joined the Maine Celtics, where he continued to hone his skills and stay in pursuit of his NBA dream.
The two-way contract with the Bulls indicates a significant opportunity for Steward to gain valuable experience at the NBA level while continuing to develop in the G-League. Two-way contracts are designed precisely for this purpose, enabling promising players to straddle the line between the NBA and the developmental league. For Steward, this arrangement offers an invaluable platform to prove he can compete at the highest level.
The timing of Steward's signing coincides with the Bulls' ongoing rebuilding phase. Chicago is focused on nurturing young talent and re-establishing themselves as a formidable force in the NBA. Signing a local prospect like Steward aligns with this strategy, potentially igniting a spark both on the court and through local fan engagement.
Steward’s journey serves as a testament to his resilience and commitment to the game. From his college days at Duke to his various professional stops, he has demonstrated an unwavering dedication and a consistent drive to improve. The upcoming season with the Bulls is poised to be a critical chapter in his career, providing him with the platform to solidify his place in the NBA and contribute to his hometown team's resurgence.
For now, all eyes will be on how DJ Steward seizes this opportunity with the Chicago Bulls. As he brings his talents back to the city where it all began, there is a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement surrounding his potential impact on the team and the league.