Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson was in a festive mood Sunday, cheering on the Chicago Bulls.
The 39-year-old bench boss is fresh off one of the most impressive debut seasons in recent NFL history. He guided Chicago to an 11-6 record, an NFC North title and the franchise’s first playoff win since 2010.
With quarterback Caleb Williams directing a rejuvenated offense, the Bears snapped their miserable 5-12 mark from the year prior.
Johnson’s arrival sparked a complete culture overhaul, and Chicago now boasts one of the most exciting young rosters in the league. But before he turns his attention back to building a Super Bowl contender, the first-year coach took a well-deserved day off.
Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Chicago Bears: Ben Johnson teases recreation of wild shirtless celebration at Bulls game
Johnson made his way to the United Center, catching the Bulls’ 120-97 blowout win over the visiting Milwaukee Bucks. Josh Giddey led the way with a triple-double, posting 20 points, 14 boards and 12 dimes. Matas Buzelis also dropped 20 markers on 7-of-15 shooting to help Chicago snap an 11-game losing streak.
The Bulls got a boost from an unexpected guest. Cameras caught Johnson in a suite alongside Bulls legend Scottie Pippen. Johnson cheekily teased the crowd by pretending to take his shirt off for the Jumbotron, only to reveal a second shirt underneath.
It was a nod to his now-iconic Black Friday celebration last November. After the Bears topped the Philadelphia Eagles 24-15, a fired-up Johnson ripped his shirt off in the locker room.
The NFL noticed and recalled the viral moment. The league’s official Instagram account posted the clip alongside a lighthearted caption: “Ben Johnson had us for a second.”
Johnson is not the only Bear to receive a thunderous ovation at the United Center this offseason.
Rookie tight end Colston Loveland drew loud cheers from Bulls fans during an earlier game. It is a sign of how quickly Chicago has embraced its new football stars.
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