Follow us on Google Discover Chicago Bulls fans had plenty to celebrate after their team opened pre-season with a 124-117 win over the Phoenix Suns at the United Center.
It was a strong start to the new era under head coach Tiago Splitter, with the Bulls recovering from a 10-point first-quarter deficit before taking control of the game.
There were plenty of positives across the roster, with Caleb Wilson scoring 15 points and Matas Buzelis adding 14. Tobe Awaka also impressed with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Dailyn Swain finished with 10 points and six assists.
Bulls fans are already excited about what Tiago Splitter is building
The result sparked plenty of optimism among supporters, with one fan writing, “I’ve seen enough, give us the Super Philadelphia 76, Boston, Pacers. Go Bulls. Love the intensity in the game.”
Another was impressed by the team’s depth, saying, “Let’s get it! Even the bench looked good.”
There was also plenty of excitement about the young core, with one supporter writing, “We looked good out there, not perfect obviously, but I can see the future with this young core.”
The excitement was summed up more simply by another fan: “So good to be back!”
Splitter also earned plenty of praise, with one particularly enthusiastic supporter writing: “Tiago Splitter, my life belongs to you. My home, my possessions, my family. They’re all yours. Just keep doing whatever you’re doing.”
Caleb Wilson also caught the attention of fans despite an inconsistent shooting night. One supporter wrote, “Caleb, you are so inspirational.”
Another fan offered a more detailed assessment of the win, pointing out that the Bulls still had work to do on defensive rebounds and turnovers while praising their aggression and the performances of Buzelis, Awaka and Swain.
“Was not the best win but good to blow out the cobwebs. You’ve got a lot to work on, especially defensive boards and the turnovers you gave them a few points,” the fan wrote. “On the bright side, good to see your aggressiveness getting to the rim. Matas Buzelis, have that mindset especially if your shots aren’t dropping.”
The Bulls will now look to build on the win as their pre-season schedule continues, with fans clearly liking what they have seen from Splitter’s young group so far.
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