Collin Sexton appreciates an expanded Bulls role

The Chicago Bulls have handed Collin Sexton a larger role than he may have anticipated following last month’s trade, according to Joe Cowley of The Chicago Sun-Times.

The experienced guard logged 38 minutes in Thursday’s road game against Phoenix and delivered an impressive performance, scoring 30 points to help power an unexpected victory.

‘‘Definitely very appreciative,’’ Sexton said. ‘‘At the end of the day, I always take one day at a time, one second at a time, one minute at a time. At the end of the day, I always tell myself [to] be where my feet are at and be grounded and focus on the now.

“Don’t focus too far in the future. I appreciate the team, as well as the organization, giving me the opportunity and trusting me down the stretch with the ball but also to make plays for others. I appreciate that.’’

Sexton is playing on an expiring contract worth nearly $19 million, and with Chicago already deep at the guard position, his long-term future with the team remains uncertain beyond this season.

Although the Bulls’ draft position could benefit from losses down the stretch, Sexton remains committed to competing hard and strengthening his connection with head coach Billy Donovan.

‘‘I appreciate Coach,’’ Sexton said. ‘‘He’s been going through a lot [the death of his father and mother-in-law in the last month], and I’ve been praying for him, my family has been praying for him.

“And for him to come out each and every day with a smile on his face and trying to encourage us … he’s had a lot going on.’’