Bulls Formally Introduce Snell, Murphy

Tony Snell and Erik Murphy were formally introduced as the newest members of the Chicago Bulls on Monday

The Chicago Bulls on Monday officially introduced its newest draftees, Tony Snell of New Mexico and Florida’s Erik Murphy, at a press conference held at the Berto Center. Joined by the two soon-to-be rookies was general manager Gar Forman and head coach Tom Thibodeau.

Addressing their dire need for outside shooting and high character guys in the locker room, the Bulls selected Snell with the No. 20 pick in the first round and Murphy with the No. 49 pick in the second round.

“From a basketball standpoint – we talked about this on draft night – one of the things we were trying to do is improve our ability to shoot the ball from the perimeter,” Forman said at the presser. “I think both of these guys have shown they can make perimeter shots, three-point shots, at a high, high level.”

Snell connected on 39 percent of three-point attempts last season for the Lobos, while Murphy connected on 45 percent of his attempts from beyond the arc. Both players should be able to help spread the floor and open things up for drives to the basket, especially with a healthy Derrick Rose back in the fold.

“We them to be complete players. We want them to fit in. I think there is a big adjustment from college to the pros. The first part is the work part,” Thibodeau said. “So they have to learn how to become pros, first, then they have to learn our system and then they have to learn the NBA. So, there’s a learning curve, but we think they’re both great workers and it’ll be a good fit.”

Both players are familiar with Tom Thibodeau and his demanding coaching style and each is ready for the challenge of not only playing for Thibs, but competing in the NBA.

Said Snell: “My expectation is to just bring my all every day, try to learn every day and pick things up as fast as I can and try to fit in with the team.” Murphy echoed the same sentiment. “My expectations are to come in and work every day and try to learn as fast as possible and do whatever I can to help the team.”

Snell will wear jersey No. 20 and Murphy, No. 31.

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