NBA-National Basketball Association roundup

June 24 (The Sports Xchange) - Despite a flurry of rumors, Jimmy Butler is still a member of the Bulls after nothing came to fruition during Thursday night's draft. There was heavy interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are coached by former Chicago head man Tom Thibodeau. The Boston Celtics were reported to have interest. Same for the Orlando Magic. But according to Chicago general manager Gar Forman, all that chatter was nonexistent. He said there weren't any draft-night talks involving Butler despite the heavy dose of reports that claimed there was plenty of trade banter. Chicago traded former MVP Derrick Rose the day before the draft and a trade of Butler would have indicated a full rebuilding situation was on the docket. - - Washington Wizards shooting guard Bradley Beal became the latest player to pass on playing for Team USA in the Summer Olympics at Rio de Janeiro when he announced that he declined a roster spot. Beal, who turns 23 on Tuesday, dealt with a leg injury last season and said on his Twitter account that improving his physical condition for the 2016-17 NBA season is the top priority. Still undecided is Cleveland point guard Kyrie Irving. - - Gary Payton II went undrafted in Thursday's NBA draft but will get a chance to make a roster as the Houston Rockets signed him to a three-year contract. The Rockets also reportedly reached agreement on three-year deals with Texas point guard Isaiah Taylor and Gonzaga forward Kyle Wiltjer. (Editing by Steve Keating.)