"He'll run through walls": Bulls blown away by Olbrich's hustle

Chicago Bulls Summer League coach Billy Donovan III has unleashed high praise on rookie Lachlan Olbrich, declaring "he’s going to hurt someone with how hard he plays", in a thrilling endorsement of the young Aussie’s intensity.

Fresh off a championship run with the Illawarra Hawks in NBL25, Olbrich was snapped up with the 55th pick in the NBA Draft and he’s wasted no time turning heads in Chicago.

“He goes by Lachie. He’s going to hurt someone with how hard he plays, but he’s been a joy to coach,” Donovan III told the media on Wednesday.

“If you tell him to run through a wall, he’ll try to run through two of them. He plays with a chip on his shoulder, but in a good way.”

Olbrich had an incredible rise across the past season, with his performance at the Draft Combine elevating his prospects and attracting attention from teams across the NBA.

He signed a two-way contract with the Bulls, meaning he’ll be desperate to impress.

“Coming in as the No. 55 pick, I’m really grateful for everything, but (it’s) baby steps for now,” Olbrich said.

“I’m here for my team, to make everyone better and keep grinding on the court. That’s all I can do right now.”

Olbrich says he’s adjusted well to the level, with the bonus of having played against seasoned professionals in Australia over the past two seasons.

“(The transition) has honestly been quite easy. It’s a little bit of a difference, but I feel like I can slide into any role I’m asked to. (Here) it’s up-tempo with a lot of freak athletes,” he added.