Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

NBA Hall of Famer praises Chicago Bulls’ Josh Giddey

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Zack Pearson | Last updated Jan 28, 2026 11:30 AM ET

The next few weeks will be important for the Chicago Bulls. They are set to take on the Miami Heat three times in the next six days as well as take on the Indiana Pacers in that span.

Currently sitting ninth in the Eastern Conference, these next four games could go a long way in terms of moving out of those spots. It also could help with some decisions ahead of the trade deadline. But one player that will stay in Chicago and be a piece to move forward with this season is Josh Giddey.

After getting a new deal this offseason, Giddey is averaging 18.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and 8.8 assists per game this season. And he’s getting the attention of an NBA legend as well.

Allen Iverson praises Josh Giddey

While Giddey may not be a superstar just yet, he’s developing into a really damn good player on this Bulls’ roster. The Australian earned the respect of NBA great Allen Iverson recently.

While in Australia, Iverson appeared on FOX Sports Australia and was asked about Aussie hoops. There he praised Giddey’s game:

“I love Josh Giddey,” said the former MVP via BleacherNation. “What you see is basically like a bird being released—he’s getting opportunity. I thought he could do all the things he’s been doing; he just needed an opportunity. Once he’s been given that chance, the things he can do out there… he’s a special basketball player. I’ve got a lot of love for him, and I’m a big fan.”

That’s pretty high praise from a guy who played at a high level his entire NBA career. Giddey began his career with Oklahoma City before being traded to Chicago. He found a role with a Bulls team essentially stuck in a tough spot of not being bad enough to tank and not being good enough to win a title.

But he has developed into a really good player that Chicago can hopefully build around at just 23-years-old.

Giddey recently returned from injury, logging 28 minutes in a loss. The Bulls will need him healthy if they want to make a push for the playoffs.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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