Editing Jimmy Butler (section)

=== NBA Draft: The Underdog Finds a Home ===
Despite his success in college, Butler was still considered an underdog in the 2011 NBA Draft. He was selected with the 30th overall pick by the Chicago Bulls, a pick that many analysts saw as a steal. While many players from big-name college programs were selected ahead of him, Butler’s combination of defense, athleticism, and basketball IQ made him a perfect fit for an up-and-coming Chicago team. However, even after being drafted, few knew the magnitude of what Butler would eventually achieve.

Butler’s rookie season (2011-2012) in Chicago was filled with promise, but he wasn’t immediately thrust into the spotlight. He began as a role player, coming off the bench behind stars like Derrick Rose and Luol Deng. But what set Butler apart from other young players was his willingness to embrace the grind and improve every single day. His defense, in particular, was already elite, and he quickly earned the trust of coach Tom Thibodeau, known for his emphasis on defense and effort.