A bold offseason decision is setting the stage for the next leap in a young NBA career. Instead of easing into the summer, one of Chicago’s rising stars is diving headfirst into elite competition, signaling confidence, ambition, and a hunger to prove his ascent is only beginning.
During the summer of 2026, Chicago Bulls forward is choosing to stay game-ready by competing on the international stage well before the 2026–27 NBA season tips off. The third-year standout announced that he will represent the Lithuanian national team in World Cup qualifying games this offseason, marking a major milestone in his basketball journey.
The 2026 summer run will serve as Buzelis’ official debut with Lithuania’s senior national team. He will turn 22 later in the year, making the opportunity both symbolic and timely as he continues to establish himself as a long-term NBA piece.
Already viewed as one of Chicago’s brightest young talents, Buzelis is building momentum with his hometown franchise. Entering his third NBA season, the forward is clearly intent on showing that his rapid rise is no accident and that his best basketball is still ahead.
Buzelis made a significant jump during the 2025–26 season. He appeared in 77 games, averaging 29.2 minutes per night while shooting 46.3 percent from the field and 34.9 percent from three-point range. The production marked career highs across the board and confirmed the promise he flashed early in his career.
Coming out of high school, Buzelis was a five-star recruit and one of the top-ranked prospects in the country. Rather than taking the college route, he opted for the NBA G League, spending a season developing against professional competition before entering the draft. Chicago selected him 11th overall in the first round, a pick many believed came later than expected.
As a rookie, Buzelis played a more limited role, averaging 18.9 minutes per game while posting 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assist on efficient shooting. That foundation paved the way for a breakout sophomore campaign.
In year two, his role expanded dramatically. He averaged 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while maintaining strong efficiency, firmly establishing himself as a core contributor.
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Chicago is clearly in the midst of a rebuild, and few players on the roster are viewed as long-term cornerstones. Buzelis, however, stands out as an exception. The franchise sees him as a foundational piece, and his development remains central to the team’s long-term vision.
By committing to international competition this summer, Buzelis is positioning himself for another leap. The added experience against high-level opponents could provide a crucial edge as he looks to deliver an even stronger season when the next NBA campaign begins.