Chicago Bulls rookie to wear Michael Jordan's No. 45

While at Michigan State, Denzel Valentine was brash and bold, never backing down from a challenge.

Drafted 14th by the Chicago Bulls, Valentine already is showing off his confidence as he was introduced to the media on Monday.

Valentine wore No. 45 for the Spartans and has decided to keep that number with Chicago. The Bulls rookie will stick with that number, the same number worn briefly by Michael Jordan.

Jordan wore No. 45 for a short time after returning from his venture into baseball before returning to his more familiar No. 23.

Valentine realizes he's stepping into some large shoes by wearing Jordan's number, but believes he is up to the task.

In fact, there have been other Bulls players to wear No. 45 -- Paul Shirley, Luke Schenscher and Rasual Butler. But none of those players have the skills Valentine brings to the Bulls.

Coach Fred Hoiberg praised the Bulls first-round pick for his ballhandling and ability to create shots.

For his part, Valentine said, "I'm excited to get going."