Introduction to the Game
The Bulls welcomed back some familiar faces, including Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, but it was a bittersweet reunion as they ran them out of the gym with a 126-113 victory. LaVine, who spent eight seasons with the Bulls, received a tribute video and a standing ovation from the crowd.
The Tribute
Zach LaVine got to his feet as the tribute video ended on the large scoreboard, acknowledging the applause that was raining down. He waved to the different sections of the United Center — the same building that cheered him for eight seasons — and then in one quick motion thumped his fist onto the left side of his chest. For that brief second, his heart was back in Chicago again. A reminder he was once a Bull.
The Game
Thanks to a 27-point scoring night from Matas Buzelis, the Bulls ruined LaVine’s first return trip to the United Center since he was traded to the Kings last February. LaVine, who finished with 30 points, wasn’t alone in getting nostalgic, as former Bulls teammate DeMar DeRozan also made his return. The only difference was DeRozan had his return and tribute video last season, so was just a passenger for LaVine’s night.
Post-Game Reflections
“Not as emotional as you would think,” LaVine said of his night. “This felt like I came home. I love Chicago. Through ups and downs, I grew my family here. I became a man here. This wasn’t like it happened and it’s over. I’ll always love Chicago. You got to ride the roller coaster. I always tried to do the best I could with (the Bulls). I never doubted my talents and the way I approached the game here. I know I did a lot in Chicago as a person. I just wish I could have won here. We just didn’t get it done. I played to the best of my ability. Like I said, nothing but love for me here.”
Coaching Perspective
Bulls coach Billy Donovan was able to catch up with both LaVine and DeRozan and wasn’t alone. Veteran Nikola Vucevic was so excited to see them when he arrived pregame that he went from parking his car, straight into the Kings locker room, still in his street clothes. The bro hugs were flowing. Another reminder that while that group may have never fulfilled the promise the organization was hoping for, they still shared a strong bond.
Conclusion
The Bulls’ victory over the Kings was a bittersweet moment for LaVine and DeRozan, who were welcomed back with a tribute video and a standing ovation. Despite the nostalgia, the Bulls were able to pull away in the second half and secure the win, thanks to a strong performance from Matas Buzelis.
FAQs
Q: Who received a tribute video during the game?
A: Zach LaVine received a tribute video during the game.
Q: Who scored 27 points for the Bulls?
A: Matas Buzelis scored 27 points for the Bulls.
Q: Who are the former Bulls players who made their return?
A: Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan are the former Bulls players who made their return.
Q: What was the final score of the game?
A: The final score of the game was 126-113 in favor of the Bulls.
Q: Who is the coach of the Bulls?
A: Billy Donovan is the coach of the Bulls.
