Irish in the NBA: Bonzie Colson continues to take advantage of opportunities

Former Notre Dame basketball star Bonzie Colson took the the floor for the Milwaukee Bucks, posting a double-double in the process.

For Bonzie Colson, playing on a team like the Milwaukee Bucks has had obvious benefits. The Bucks, having wrapped up the NBA’s best record (and therefore, home court advantage throughout the NBA Playoffs), were able to rest stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Eric Bledsoe, while also playing Khris Middleton on a minutes restriction.

What that meant for Colson was a chance to crack the starting lineup and play big minutes for the second time this season. In his first start, Colson set career marks, one of which he was able to surpass on Wednesday night.

In his second career start, Colson didn’t disappoint, scoring 21 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and tallying 3 steals in a 127-116 loss the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Colson’s game on Wednesday was his efficiency, even considering the fact that he played 45 minutes. The former Irish star finished 7-for-16 from the field and 3-for-9 from behind the three-point line.

Colson likely won’t see much time in the NBA Playoffs, but at the very least, he has proven to be a serviceable role player, if he can remain healthy. But standing at 6-foot-6 with an impressive wingspan, the former Irish forward remains an interesting NBA prospect. His length allows him to play bigger than his height, and that has been shown in his ability to pull down double-digit rebounds in multiple games this season.

Whatever the future hold for Colson, these games that allow him to showcase his skills. Where Colson ends up next season is anybody’s guess. Good teams like Milwaukee allow him the opportunity to play big minutes in games where starters rest. A developing team would allow him the opportunity to compete for NBA playing time on a nightly basis. Either way, Bonzie Colson seems to make the best of his opportunities.