Eastern Conference Roundup: Donovan Enters Hall, White Reacts; Wizards Eye Johnson’s Growth; Wall Talks Jersey Retirement; Shammgod Sees Upside in Orlando
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Sept. 7, 2025 — Chicago, Washington and Orlando
Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan, a two-time NCAA champion at Florida, was officially enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame on Saturday. Starting guard Coby White, who traveled to Springfield for the ceremony, told Chicago Sports Network that Donovan’s direct approach has accelerated his development. “He’s honest … He pushes you … He’s always been upfront with me,” White said, adding that the coach “builds a relationship with his players,” something he believes is uncommon at the NBA level.
Donovan signed a multi-year extension with Chicago in late July. White, 25, is set to earn roughly $12.9 million in the final season of his rookie contract in 2025-26.
Wizards: Johnson’s All-Around Game, Wall’s Legacy
Tre Johnson III, Washington’s 2025 lottery pick, entered the draft tagged primarily as a shooter. During July’s Las Vegas Summer League, however, he flashed improved ball-handling. “I watch bits and pieces of Kyrie Irving and Darius Garland … how they can change speeds,” Johnson said. Second-year center Alex Sarr called Johnson’s passing a pleasant surprise, stating, “We’re just seeing the surface of what he’s capable of.”
Former Wizards star John Wall, who retired last month and will join Amazon Prime Video’s NBA coverage in 2025-26, told The Washington Post he hopes the team retires his No. 2 jersey. Wall made five All-Star appearances with Washington and remains the franchise’s all-time leader in assists and steals—achievements columnist Varun Shankar argues place him among the club’s most significant players since Wes Unseld.
Magic: Shammgod Encouraged by Young Core
New Orlando assistant God Shammgod, hired after nine seasons with Dallas, believes the Magic roster is positioned to “dare to be great.” Speaking with NBC Sports, he praised Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner as cornerstone talents while also citing Desmond Bane, Jalen Suggs, Anthony Black and Tyus Jones as ready to leave their mark. “I’m just happy and honored to be a part of it,” Shammgod said.
The Magic, Wizards and Bulls will open training camps later this month.
Source: Hoops Rumors
