The Chicago Bulls closed out the 2025 calendar year with a high-octane performance, defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 134–118.

The Chicago Bulls closed out the 2025 calendar year with a high-octane performance, defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 134–118 at the United Center on December 31, 2025. In a fast-paced affair, Chicago’s balanced scoring and depth overcame New Orleans’ offense, giving the Bulls a strong bounce-back win in front of a raucous home crowd.

Balanced Scoring Lifts Chicago

Chicago’s offense was firing on all cylinders, shooting 51% from the field and 35% from three, compared to New Orleans’ 43% overall shooting and 32% from beyond the arc. The Bulls also won the rebound battle 49–46 and converted 20 points off the Pelicans’ turnovers, a key edge in the victory.

Guard Isaac Okoro led Chicago’s attack with a season-high 24 points, showing aggression and efficiency despite heavy Bulls injuries. Tre Jones was a catalyst on both ends, finishing with 20 points and 12 assists, orchestrating Chicago’s offense and creating shots for teammates. Jalen Smith posted a double-double, tallying 14 points and 14 rebounds to anchor the paint. Additional scoring came from Matas Buzelis (19 points), Nikola Vucevic (17), Kevin Huerter (13), Ayo Dosunmu and Patrick Williams (12 each), giving the Bulls an impressive eight players in double figures.

Pelicans Fight But Can’t Keep Pace

New Orleans was paced by Zion Williamson’s 31 points, the Pelicans’ most consistent scoring threat. Jordan Poole added 26 points, while Saddiq Bey (16) and Trey Murphy III (15) also contributed. Despite the effort, the Pelicans struggled to match Chicago’s offensive bursts and couldn’t contain the Bulls’ depth.

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After trailing by seven at the end of the first quarter, New Orleans got back in rhythm in stretches, but turnovers and a lack of defensive stops allowed Chicago to pull away — especially in the second and fourth quarters.

Chicago’s Resilience Shows

This impressive 134–118 win marked a statement night for the Bulls, especially given the absence of key players like Coby White and Josh Giddey due to injury. Chicago’s ability to spread the scoring load and force turnovers into transition points highlighted the team’s depth and offensive versatility.

For the Pelicans, the loss extended a rough patch, but Zion Williamson’s performance provided a bright spot as New Orleans looks to regroup in the new year.