Post by C.C. on Nov 22, 2005 12:49:25 GMT -5
Bulls reach agreement with Bynum
Bynum was selected by the Bulls in the 1st round of the 2007 BBS Draft.
The Chicago Bulls have signed center Andrew Bynum to a max contract extension, General Manager C.C. Christian announced today.
“We are very happy that we were able to sign Andrew Bynum to a contract extension that will keep him in the fold for many years to come,” said C.C. “We think very highly of Andrew, both as a player and as an individual. We feel that with his talent, continued growth and development, he is going to be an important part of our success, not only this season, but in the future. Additionally, he is a wonderful individual and an asset to our franchise both on and off the court.”
General Manager C.C. Christian was clear on how significant it was to re-sign Bynum for the Bulls.
“Andrew Bynum clearly represents the future of the BBS and the future of the Chicago Bulls as well,” Bulls General Manager C.C. Christian said. “This franchise and city are fortunate to have one of the league’s youngest players committed long term with a goal and determination of helping this team compete each year. But our main focus is making the Playoffs each year, and anything that takes away from that concentration (such as contract issues) hurts. I think we can be one of the top five teams in the East. We really have a nice group of guys. The chemistry is here.”
Bynum, 22, appeared in 82 games for the Bulls last season, averaging 5.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.00 block and a FG% of .447 in 19.7 minutes per contest. Originally selected with the 8th overall pick in the 2007 BBS Draft, Bynum has appeared in 142 games with Chicago, averaging 6.1 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 31.8 minutes per contest. Through 27 games this season, Bynum boost his average by putting up 11.5 points, 11.5 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, and a FG% of .456.
"I would like to thank C.C. Christian and the entire Bulls organization for the faith they are showing in me by signing this extension," Bynum said. "I knew from the beginning of this process that this is the place that I wanted to be and an organization that I wanted to be a part of in the future. This is where I want to live and this is where I want to play, and I look forward to helping this team get to the next level. I’m very optimistic about the direction of the franchise and the potential for this team to become one of the top clubs in the Eastern Conference for several years. This is a great day for myself, and the Bulls. Now I can move forward and help this team continue to improve."
