Billy Donovan Addresses Midrange Debate After Ayo Dosunmu’s Comments

Billy Donovan sought to clarify his shooting philosophy on March 19, 2026, making remarks inside the United Center as the Chicago crowd looked on while the team continues to draw scrutiny online.

Former Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu, who was traded to Minnesota at the deadline, told reporters this week that his new role with the Timberwolves — featuring screens from Rudy Gobert — has given him more midrange opportunities than he experienced in Chicago, a comment that sparked debate among fans on social platforms.

Donovan said he had not seen Dosunmu’s remarks and emphasized that he is not categorically opposed to midrange shots. He pointed to past Bulls eras when players such as Zach LaVine, Nikola Vucevic and DeMar DeRozan used midrange work, but argued that shot selection must align with efficiency and the roster’s strengths. He described a preference for attacking early in the shot clock and noted midrange situations frequently arise late in isolations.

Timberwolves coach Chris Finch responded to Dosunmu’s comments with a jest, saying, "Sounds like my pupil is failing class here." Observers have also noted structural differences between Minnesota’s lineup and Chicago’s roster when assessing pick-and-roll and screening production.

On personnel, Donovan reported that guard Jaden Ivey is progressing through a knee-strengthening regimen and will join the team on a four-game road trip next week with a possible in-trip return pending testing, while Isaac Okoro continues to be limited by a sore right knee.