Former Kentucky Wildcats standout Rob Dillingham is on the move again, with the young guard receiving another opportunity to establish himself in the NBA.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Chicago Bulls traded Dillingham to the Charlotte Hornets over the weekend in exchange for veteran guard Buddy Hield and cash considerations. The move comes just before the start of the NBA preseason.
This marks the second trade of Dillingham’s young NBA career. He was originally selected by the San Antonio Spurs before being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves on draft night.
Dillingham later landed with the Bulls in February, where his role gradually increased. In 30 games with Chicago, he averaged 9.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game.
Now, Dillingham gets another fresh start — but this destination carries extra significance. The former Kentucky guard was raised in Charlotte, meaning his latest move brings him back to a familiar area.
Dillingham became one of Kentucky’s most exciting players during his lone season in Lexington. Known for his explosive ball-handling, creativity and ability to knock down difficult shots, he averaged 15 points and 4 assists per game while shooting 44% from three-point range.
His NBA production has yet to match what he showed at Kentucky, but his talent and offensive ability remain evident. The move to Charlotte gives him another chance to develop, earn a larger role and show why he was once considered one of the most gifted guards in college basketball.
For Dillingham, the next chapter begins in a familiar place. And with the NBA season approaching, all eyes will be on whether this latest opportunity can help him take the next step in his career.
