The Chicago Bulls fell 114-104 to the struggling New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday, dropping their record to 10-15 after a strong 6-1 start to the season.
Bulls head coach Billy Donovan shared a notable post-game assessment following the loss, according to Sam Smith of NBA.com. Even in defeat to one of the league’s struggling teams, Donovan pointed out some encouraging signs.
“I felt like we played the right way; I really did. We didn’t shoot the ball well. The way we played tonight (however) is a sustainable style because even though we shot the ball incredibly poorly, we gave ourselves a chance. As poorly as we shot (seeing a trend here?), and them making a couple late, we were there,” said the Bulls head coach.
“We’re going to have to find ways to win games in the mud when we don’t shoot it well. I thought defensively we tried to compete and gave ourselves a chance.”
Billy Donovan’s Bulls struggles continue
Nov 24, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Chicago Bulls Head Coach Billy Donovan looks on against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Sunday’s defeat marked the Bulls’ second loss of the season to the Pelicans, following a 143-130 road setback on November 24. After that earlier loss, Donovan openly acknowledged the team’s struggles, but now his perspective has shifted dramatically.
Coby White led the charge with 20 points, five assists, and five rebounds. Kevin Huerter chipped in 16 points, including four three-pointers. Nikola Vucevic added 12 points and grabbed eight rebounds, while Josh Giddey recorded 11 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.
Matas Buzelis and Dalen Terry each contributed nine points, while Patrick Williams added eight. Tre Jones and Jalen Smith chipped in six points apiece, and Isaac Okoro finished with five points.
Dec 3, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan directs the team during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Recently, Donovan has faced criticism over his coaching performance. Key factors include inconsistent team play, uneven player development, defensive struggles, and lingering chemistry problems.
Since taking over as head coach in 2020, the Bulls have largely stayed below .500 and have missed the playoffs, while several young players have yet to evolve into leaders capable of carrying the team.
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