After Ohio State’s shocking 2021 March Madness loss, EJ Liddell endured a barrage of threatening and hateful messages, marking a pivotal moment of reflection in his career. “For the millions of people, there’s also the one or two that are going to be negative…everybody is not going to be on the same page as you as always,” the youngster reflected after the frightening experience re-emphasizing the point that it is ‘just a game’.

The New Orleans Pelicans drafted him as the 41st overall pick in 2022, transforming him from a college player to professional hooper. EJ Liddell’s potential was demonstrated in his rookie season, although the depth of the Pelicans’ roster limited his contributions.

Now, as the Chicago Bulls finalize their roster for the new season, Liddell, 23, has been signed to fill the void left by DeMar DeRozan’s departure. His transition from dealing with online abuse to becoming a key player for the legacy franchise highlights his resilience and rising prominence in the NBA.

A versatile player with his defensive prowess and potential to make a significant impact- his move to the Bulls will be a turning point in his career, giving him a chance to shine on a bigger platform. His brief time with the Pels allowed him to gain valuable experience and adapt to the NBA’s rigorous demands. His defensive intensity and scoring efficiency in his performances endeared him to coaches and fans alike.

From Belleville to Ohio and then Chicago: Liddell’s rise to stardom

EJ Liddell was born in Belleville, Illinois, and went to Belleville High School-West, where he started playing basketball. His impressive performances as a high school player led him to win the 2018 Illinois Mr. Basketball Award, as he averaged 20.8 points and a smidgen over 8 rebounds. He also won the St. Louis Post Dispatch Player of the Year and won the Illinois 4A class state championship and Mr. Basketball Awards twice, both in his junior and senior years.

After committing to Ohio State over scholarship offers from Missouri, Wisconsin, and Illinois, he continued to excel, becoming a dominant force in college basketball. Outstanding performances and a reputation for resilience and leadership marked his tenure with the Buckeyes. He played in all 31 games and ranked 2nd with 29 blocks on the team’s list. He even scored a double-double in a win against his hometown, Illinois!

At Ohio State, his performance remained impressive despite all the challenges, Coach Chris Holtmann said, “He’s always been a talented enough player that he’s always been able to manage when his motor hasn’t been as optimal as his mom or dad or coach would like.” To appreciate Liddell’s potential impact, it’s important to look back at his journey from Belleville to Ohio State. His standout performances in high school and college set a solid foundation for his performance.

Now, as he joins the Bulls, Liddell’s journey exemplifies his dedication and hard work, paving the way for his entry into the NBA.

Will EJ Liddell be the Chicago Bulls’ savior after DeMar DeRozan’s exit?

Before his move to the Bulls, EJ Liddel briefly represented the New Orleans Pelicans in the Summer League.

DeMar DeRozan’s departure has triggered a major shift for the Chicago Bulls, prompting a thorough reassessment of their roster and overall strategy. E.J. Liddell, who has likely signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Bulls, steps into this evolving landscape. He, previously waived by the Suns after a trade from the Hawks, has shown significant promise in the G League, averaging 17.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. His versatile skill set and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor make him a crucial addition to the Bulls. His highest contribution was a 35-point haul in the win against Capital City Go-Go.

Patrick Williams has been promoted to starting power forward, amplifying his responsibilities on both offense and defense. Liddell’s role will provide essential depth and support, helping to address the void left by DeRozan and complementing Williams in his new position. As the Bulls navigate significant roster changes, Liddell’s performance in the preseason training camp will be vital in solidifying his spot and aiding the team’s transition.

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.