Tim Floyd was pacing the sideline. Dedric Willoughby was on the court, running all over the place, popping long jump shots without a trace of hesitation. No, it was last Saturday night at the United Center. With three seconds left, it was Willoughby taking a 25-foot shot that hit the front of the rim and bounced away. Had it gone in, it would likely have given the Chicago Bulls a win over the Milwaukee Bucks.
Veterans get the calls.
It was Willoughby who had six assists, who fired five 3-pointers and made two. He vanished once he left Iowa State. He didn't get drafted by an NBA team, and spent two years playing in Italy. He was another fine college player who wasn't to be seen again. Except here he is in Chicago, a rookie averaging 21 minutes and 8.1 points a game for the Bulls.