Bulls' Matas Buzelis Earns Second Rising Stars Nod, Declines Dunk Contest

Overview

• Chicago announced Monday that Buzelis will play in the Rising Stars game on Feb. 13 at the Intuit Dome during All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles.
• Buzelis confirmed he turned down a 2026 dunk contest invite, saying he wants to "listen to my body" given the workload and limited time to rehearse dunks.
• The Bulls’ schedule includes five games in seven days this week and nine in the 16 days before the break due to a rescheduled Miami matchup.
• In his sophomore season, he is averaging about 14.9 points and 5.2 rebounds and has taken on a larger role as a 28-minute-per-game starter.
• This is technically his third Rising Stars appearance including a 2024 G League Ignite selection, and this year’s event will feature honorary coaches Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady in a four-team format.