Bulls Pull Off 24-Point Comeback to Beat Sixers, 113-111

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In a game that will be talked about for weeks, the Chicago Bulls pulled off one of the most thrilling comebacks of the early 2025-26 season. Trailing by 24 points at one point, they stormed back to defeat the Philadelphia 76ers 113–111 on their home court Tuesday night.

The Game Story

From the opening minutes, it looked like the Bulls were in trouble. The 76ers jumped out strong and at one stage held a 24-point lead. But as the game progressed, Chicago began to chip away. The turning point: in the final moments, the Bulls executed under pressure and secured the go-ahead shot.

With just 3.2 seconds remaining, the Bulls had their first and only lead of the game — after a superb assist from Josh Giddey to veteran Nikola Vucevic, who nailed the corner three-pointer that put Chicago up for good.

Key Performers

Josh Giddey: A monster night — 29 points, 15 rebounds, 12 assists. Not only did he lead the comeback, but he also became the first Bulls player since Michael Jordan in 1989 to post back-to-back triple-doubles.
Nikola Vucevic: Tallied 19 points and 10 rebounds, and delivered the clutch basket that sealed the game.
Team Defense and Fourth Quarter Surge: After surrendering a massive lead, the Bulls locked in defensively — holding the 76ers to just 36 second-half points and missing their final 11 shots.
76ers’ Collapse: Despite 39 points from Tyrese Maxey and 20 from Joel Embiid, Philadelphia faded late, unable to close the door.

What It Means

This game is significant for several reasons:

Psychological Statement: Erasing a 24-point deficit sends a message about the Bulls’ resilience and belief — traits often associated with contending teams.
Team Momentum: With this win, the Bulls improved to 6-1 and took control of the Eastern Conference standings.
Giddey’s Emergence: His stat line and late-game leadership suggest he is not just a contributor — he’s becoming a foundational piece.
Front-Office Validation: Some analysts referenced this as vindication of the Bulls’ personnel moves (e.g., the investment in Giddey) and coaching direction.

Key Moments to Remember

The 76ers’ opening surge built confidence and forced the Bulls to climb out of a very deep hole.
The Bulls’ defense tightened significantly in the second half, especially in the fourth quarter.
The final possession: Giddey drives, draws the defense, finds Vucevic in the corner — the three drops and the United Center erupts.
The 76ers’ late drought: unable to answer under pressure, which allowed Chicago the opening it needed.

Broader Implications

For the Bulls: this win may mark a turning point. It shows they’re not deterred by large deficits, and under pressure, they can execute.
For the league: Chicago may no longer be the “up-and-coming” team — they are imposing themselves, and teams will take notice.
For the fans: A night of excitement that reinforces hope and belief.

What to Watch Going Forward

Can the Bulls build consistency? Comebacks are thrilling, but sustainable success demands fewer holes to dig out of.
How will Giddey’s role evolve? His triple-double nights are raising the ceiling.
Will the defense maintain its late-game toughness, or will there be regressions?
Can the Bulls continue to win head-to-head matchups against other contenders in the East?