Luol Deng satisfied with his Olympics performance and experience; Talks Chicago Bulls – NBA News
Luol Deng just had his lifetime wish fulfilled when he led the British men basketball team at the 2012 London Olympics.
Deng had always wanted to be at the Olympics, playing amongst the best athletes in the world. But his wish did not come easily, as Deng had to fight off a wrist injury and convince his NBA team, Chicago Bulls, that he was fit to
play at the Olympics, and in no way in threat of further injuring himself and creating problems for the organization.
"I don't know how it became bigger than it is. It's not a problem. It was just a question of whether I should get surgery or should I not,” said Deng.
Deng will now join a different looking Bulls roster when he reports for training camp sometime in September or early October. The Bulls have let go Kyle Korver, C.J. Watson, Ronnie Brewer and Omer Asik in the summer and instead
acquired Kirk Hinrich, Marco Belinelli and Vladimir Radmanovic.
Deng believes that it will be tough adjusting to the new team and the new line-up.
"We've lost some guys I really wish had stayed, who I'm friends with and close with. But it's my ninth year and the roster has been different every year,” added Deng.
He will also starting next season with a weakened Bulls roster, as they attempt to live up to the past two seasons where they finished with the best record in the league. Bulls star point guard Derrick Rose is scheduled to be out
for most of the season as he recovers from an ACL injury to his knee.
Deng admits that playing without Rose will be a challenge.
"It's definitely going to be tough being without him. He is a big part of everything we do,”.
Deng had an amazing tournament at the Olympics, where he led his team in points with 15.8, assists with 4.6 and steals with 1.4 per game. His amazing performance almost helped Britain qualify for the quarter finals, but a blowout
loss to Australia in a game which they were leading in the third period, put an end to Britain’s dreams of qualifying.
Deng was double teamed through the tournament, being the best player on the team. However, he is all smiles about his experience at the Olympics and says that not only was it the perfect opportunity to improve his game and work
on his weaknesses, but it was also an experience to remember. He says he will relish the opportunity for years to come.
"Just playing in my hometown, playing with guys I grew up with, just competing with the best teams in the world, that's what I will remember most,” said Deng.
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