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In a game that will be remembered as one of the most exhilarating comebacks of the young NBA season, the Chicago Bulls overturned a 24-point deficit to edge the Philadelphia 76ers, 113–111, on Tuesday night. The United Center erupted when Nikola Vucevic drained a go-ahead corner three-pointer with just 3.2 seconds left on the clock — a shot that sealed one of the most remarkable turnarounds in franchise history.
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A Historic Rally in the Windy City
The Bulls, who had trailed by as many as 24 points and entered the final quarter still down by nine, clawed back through determination, teamwork, and a surge of confidence led by Josh Giddey and Vucevic.
Giddey delivered yet another masterclass performance, finishing with 29 points, 15 rebounds, and 12 assists — his second consecutive triple-double. The feat made him the first Bulls player since Michael Jordan to record back-to-back triple-doubles, marking a milestone moment early in his Chicago tenure.
Meanwhile, Vucevic’s clutch three-pointer not only gave Chicago its first and only lead of the night but also capped off an emotional rally that showcased the Bulls’ evolving resilience. The veteran center tallied 19 points and 10 rebounds, anchoring the comeback effort both inside and beyond the arc.
NIKOLA VUCEVIC HITS THE GAME WINNING 3 POINT SHOT vs THE 76ERS.
Philadelphia Falters Late
The 76ers seemed firmly in control through most of the contest, jumping out to a 45–27 lead after the first quarter and dominating much of the first half. Tyrese Maxey was electric, scoring a game-high 39 points while hitting six three-pointers, and Joel Embiid contributed 20 points in just 25 minutes.
However, the Sixers’ offense collapsed in the closing stretch, missing their final 11 shots and managing only 36 points in the entire second half. Their inability to execute down the stretch opened the door for Chicago’s improbable comeback.
Bulls Arena went CRAZY after Nikola Vucevic hits the game winning three ball!
Leadership, Belief, and Lessons Learned
Following the win, Giddey called the victory “one of the best I’ve ever been part of,” noting the team’s grit and togetherness in the face of adversity.
Vucevic echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of belief and composure. “Whenever you come back down 20-something and win the game, it’s big, especially against a team like Philly,” he said. “It just showed the resilience we have, the belief we have, the togetherness we have.”
Despite the celebrations, the veteran center was quick to remind his teammates that consistency must improve. “This is not how you can become a good team — by getting down 20 and then waking up,” he said. “We have to play better from the beginning. This game was a great example of what we can be when we play the way we need to.”
Bulls’ Momentum Continues
With the win, Chicago improved to 6–1, matching its best start since the 2021–22 season — the last year it made the playoffs. The victory added to a growing list of quality wins over Eastern Conference contenders, including the Knicks, Hawks, Magic, and Pistons.
The comeback also marked the largest rally by any team so far this NBA season, a testament to the Bulls’ growing chemistry under coach Billy Donovan. The team’s depth was on full display, with six players scoring in double figures and a defensive effort that tightened when it mattered most.
An Inspiring Turning Point
For a franchise seeking to reestablish itself among the Eastern elite, this win felt like more than just two points in the standings — it felt like a statement. The Bulls proved they could respond to adversity with maturity and poise, guided by a young star in Giddey and a steady veteran in Vucevic.
If this performance is any indication, the Bulls’ mix of youth, experience, and heart could make them one of the most compelling stories in the NBA this season. What began as a night of frustration turned into a defining moment — one that reminded fans and players alike that belief, teamwork, and persistence can turn any deficit into triumph.
Sources:
The Sports Leader – NBA Roundup: Nikola Vucevic, Bulls Pull Off Stunning Rally vs. 76ers
ABC7 Chicago – Bulls Rally from 24 Down vs. 76ers in Battle of East Leaders
Reuters – NBA Roundup: Nikola Vucevic, Bulls Pull Off Stunning Rally vs. 76ers
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