The Chicago Bulls tipped off their 2025–26 season with a Central Division matchup against the Detroit Pistons, surviving a late scare to earn a 115–111 victory. And while a team win is always the main goal, Matas Buzelis’ individual performance stole the spotlight and brought a much-needed breath of fresh air to the United Center.
The Bulls came out on fire, building a 23-point lead early in the game, an unusual feat for a team that gave up double-digit leads in all five preseason contests. But old habits returned in the fourth quarter, as Chicago’s advantage quickly disappeared and Detroit tied the game with just under two minutes to play.