Zach Collins, the former Gonzaga standout, has had a tumultuous season with the Chicago Bulls, primarily due to injuries that kept him off the court for significant stretches. After starting the season sidelined with a broken left wrist, Collins made a brief return, averaging nearly 10 points and 5.6 rebounds over a 10-game span before suffering a sprained right toe that ultimately required season-ending surgery in February. As he looks ahead to the offseason, Collins is determined to focus on his health and strength to prepare for the next NBA season.
At 28 years old, Collins has completed his ninth season in the league, and he is eager to build on the progress he made before his injuries. "I really locked in last summer, came in in really good shape, and all the things that I’d worked on in the summer were showing themselves in the games that I did play," he shared. Collins aims to carry this momentum into the upcoming summer, learning from his experiences to prevent future injuries and enhance his performance.
The Bulls' season was marked by instability, including significant trades and the firing of key management personnel, culminating in head coach Billy Donovan stepping down after a disappointing 31-51 record. Collins expressed his appreciation for Donovan's straightforward coaching style, which he found refreshing and motivating. "He’s always been very straightforward from the first day I got here," Collins noted, emphasizing the importance of clear communication in a team environment.
Despite the challenges faced by the Bulls, Collins remains connected to his Gonzaga roots. He was part of the Zags team that reached the NCAA title game in 2017, and he celebrated the recent induction of Gonzaga coach Mark Few into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. "I think it’s very well deserving and it was only a matter of time," Collins remarked, highlighting the impact Few had on his career.
As Collins prepares for free agency, he is focused on recovery and returning to the court stronger than ever. His commitment to improvement and his deep ties to Gonzaga will undoubtedly play a significant role in his journey ahead in the NBA.