The Chicago Bulls sweep the Cleveland Cavaliers in their two game series, inching the Bulls closer back to a .500 record.

In a high-scoring Eastern Conference matchup at Rocket Arena, the Chicago Bulls defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 136–125 on December 19, 2025. Chicago’s offense was firing on all cylinders, outshooting Cleveland in nearly every category and overcoming a third-quarter Cavs rally to claim a crucial road victory.

Balanced Scoring Fuels Bulls’ Win

The Bulls leaned on a balanced scoring attack as Chicago shot 52% from the field and 38% from three-point range, compared with Cleveland’s 48% shooting overall and 36% from deep. Chicago also converted 80% of its free throws in the win.

Nikola Vucevic led the way for Chicago with 24 points, showing his usual presence on both ends of the floor. Matas Buzelis also scored 24, adding physicality and finishing inside, while Coby White, Josh Giddey, Isaac Okoro, and others contributed efficiently throughout the game.

The Bulls dominated in transition and ball movement, recording 34 assists as a team and forcing 15 Cavs turnovers that turned into easy scoring opportunities. Chicago outrebounded Cleveland 48–46 and also tallied 12 steals to disrupt the Cavaliers’ rhythm.

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Cavaliers Fight Back, But Bulls Hold Strong

Cleveland kept the game close early, matching Chicago with 32 points in the first quarter as the teams exchanged baskets in a fast-paced start. The Cavaliers — led offensively by Darius Garland’s 35 points on 13–27 shooting and 3 free throws made — responded with a big third quarter (44 points) that briefly swung momentum in their favor.

Still, the Bulls answered every Cavs run. Chicago’s defense tightened at key moments, and the Bulls outscored Cleveland 35–26 in the fourth quarter to pull away. Despite the loss, the Cavaliers hit 79% of their free throws and fought hard on the glass, keeping the game competitive throughout.

What This Win Means for Chicago

The 136–125 triumph is a statement road win for the Bulls, showcasing improved offensive cohesion and depth scoring. Chicago’s ability to share the ball and make timely threes will be key as the season unfolds, particularly in a crowded Eastern Conference. With performances from both veterans and emerging contributors like Buzelis, the Bulls demonstrated they can compete even when games are up and down early.