DJ Steward, a Chicago Bulls guard, performed well during the NBA 2K25 Summer League. After his performance won him a two-way deal, Steward, a Chicago native, sent out a message about taking the next step in his career.
It’s a journey that has taken him through the G League and even abroad as he pursues his goal.
“God did!” On July 21, Steward posted a post on X. “Never give up!! “More work to do.”
Steward concluded Summer League averaging 17.4 points on 47% shooting overall, including 40% from downtown. He also averaged 6.4 assists, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.2 turnovers. However, his contract is about more than simply his statistical performance.
“It’s no surprise that the Bulls are signing the Chicago native to a two-way contract. Steward did a good job of leading the offense during Summer League and shown 3-point shooting ability,” “Gimme The Hot Sauce” host Mark Schanowski wrote on X on July 21. “Good developmental prospect to play for @windycitybulls this season.”
DJ Steward may thrive with the Windy City Bulls.
The Windy City Bulls, who will be coached by Billy Donovan’s son, Billy Donovan III, in 2024-25, have Carlik Jones, the G League MVP in 2022-23, on their roster.
Jones is performing for South Sudan in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics qualifications.
Steward, a rookie, is similar in size but younger than Jones was when he joined the Bulls. Jones, 26, was in his second season in the NBA, having spent his first year with the Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets. In 2023-24, he played for China’s Zhejiang Golden Bulls.
Steward, 22, joined the league in 2021 after going undrafted from Duke. He agreed to minimum contracts with the Sacramento Kings in 2021 and 2022.
The 6-foot-1 guard has also signed a training camp contract with the Boston Celtics for 2023.
He has yet to suit up for a game, however. Steward may struggle to see minutes with the Bulls in 2024-25 unless he has a series of ailments. The Bulls have acquired Josh Giddey, the former No. 6 overall selection in 2021, to a group that includes 2024 Most Improved Player runner-up Coby White.
Steward will take the Bulls’ final of three two-way spots. He joins previous undrafted free agents Adama Sanogo and Andrew Funk.
Steward can play up to 50 regular-season games with the Bulls as part of a two-way contract.
Bulls: ‘Teardown Won’t Be Complete’ Without More Moves
The Bulls also have 15 standard contracts, ensuring a complete regular-season roster. They have till October 21 to complete the 15-man roster.
So far, their efforts to trade two-time former All-Star Zach LaVine have been unsuccessful.
