The Chicago Bulls secured their first win after an 11-game losing streak on March 1, 2026, by storming past the Milwaukee Bucks with a dominant fourth quarter performance at home. The Bulls fourth quarter comeback stunned fans as Milwaukee struggled offensively, allowing Chicago to overtake and finish with a 120-97 victory that halted the team’s February skid.
Renewed Offensive Rhythm Sparks Hope
Sunday’s game marked a clear shift in the Bulls’ offensive identity, with the players showing more effective ball movement and energy from the opening tip. Although Milwaukee’s defense ranked near the bottom of the league, the Bulls’ newfound cohesion was evident. Key contributors like Josh Giddey and Tre Jones made significant impacts, facilitating fluid play that frequently created open shots for teammates.
Early in the game, the Bulls leaned heavily on their perimeter shooting, attempting 18 of their first 21 shots from beyond the arc, converting only six. Despite the low efficiency, the ball movement was encouraging, helping narrow the halftime deficit to 66-51 and keeping the game competitive. Assists were plentiful, accounting for 15 of their first 18 field goals.
Crucial halftime adjustments helped the Bulls charge in the third quarter, a period that had recently troubled them. The team attacked aggressively, especially inside the restricted area where their finishing improved dramatically. Collin Sexton led this surge, scoring 10 points during the frame, helping the Bulls trim Milwaukee’s lead to just two points at 89-87 heading into the final quarter.
The connection built in the third quarter propelled Chicago into a dominant fourth quarter, with the team registering 34 assists by game’s end – their first 30-plus assist game since late January’s last win versus Miami. This revival of teamwork underscored the team’s potential when firing on all cylinders.
A Historic Fourth Quarter Surge Against Milwaukee
The final quarter was the defining stretch of the night as the Bulls delivered their most commanding offensive display of the season. After struggling offensively for much of February, they exploded on the scoreboard with a 33-8 run. At one point, an extraordinary 27-0 run left the Bucks stunned and struggling to respond.
This remarkable sequence included highlight-reel plays such as Matas Buzelis’s emphatic poster dunk over Bobby Portis and a dazzling alley-oop from Josh Giddey to Nick Richards, electrifying the home crowd and sealing the outcome decisively.
Get up or get out the way 🏿♂️@BuzelisMatas | @CHSN__ pic.twitter.com/prQPyFzd7N
NICK RICHARDS FULL EXTENSION.@iamnickrichards | @CHSN__ pic.twitter.com/xoIvybvP6w
The scoring was balanced, with contributions from Giddey, Buzelis, Sexton, Tre Jones, Isaac Okoro, Richards, and Leonard Miller, all reaching double figures by the night’s end. Chicago boasted three players in the 20-point range, underscoring the team’s collective effort.
Moreover, the Bulls’ defense disrupted the Bucks repeatedly, forcing 19 turnovers that led to 20 points for Chicago. The team recorded 14 steals, limiting Milwaukee’s offensive effectiveness, especially as their usual size advantage was mitigated with Giannis Antetokounmpo off the floor. The Bulls’ active defense was instrumental in this resounding victory.
Coach Donovan Opts for a Sharper Rotation
Head coach Billy Donovan deviated from his typical strategy of employing a deep rotation, instead committing to an eight-man lineup that delivered consistent minutes and production. The core unit, featuring Giddey, Jones, Okoro, Buzelis, Guerschon Yabusele, Sexton, Richards, and Leonard Miller, logged substantial playing time and all scored in double figures.
Donovan’s choice to maintain this condensed rotation despite trailing by 15 points at halftime was unexpected but ultimately effective. However, Rob Dillingham, who had been anticipated to play a larger role, saw just five minutes on the floor, limiting an opportunity for consistent minutes. Given that Dillingham remains under contract next season, increasing his game exposure could be crucial for his development.
Leonard Miller’s performance provided a silver lining within the rotation decisions, as the second-year forward made noticeable contributions with his versatility and size. Miller’s emerging role on the wing added a much-needed physical presence, and his effort seemingly earned him extended playing time in future contests.
Standout Performances Propel Team Success
Josh Giddey was the driving force behind the Bulls’ resurgence, finishing with a triple-double of 20 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists, while adding two steals. His efficient shooting (7-of-14 from the field and 5-of-11 from three-point range) showcased considerable growth in his perimeter game. With key frontcourt players Jalen Smith and Patrick Williams sidelined, Giddey’s contributions on the boards were vital for maintaining the team’s interior presence.
Collin Sexton delivered a strong second-half performance, scoring a season-high 22 points along with three steals and two assists. His +28 plus/minus rating highlighted his importance as an energizer off the bench, providing timely scoring that maintained the Bulls’ momentum and helped solidify the win.
Leonard Miller, building on his increasing role, achieved a career-high 15 points to go with five rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. His balanced game and opportunistic playstyle added a new dimension to Chicago’s lineup.
Leonard Miller in today’s win vs. Milwaukee:15 PTS | 2-4 3FG | 5 REB | 4 AST | +38 ALL career-high marks for @LeonardMi11er 👍 pic.twitter.com/jwCnyZbAnq
Matas Buzelis, continuing his upward trajectory, tallied 20 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and two blocks, marking his third consecutive 20-point effort. His ability to score both on and off the ball demonstrated his developing maturity as a scorer.
Guerschon Yabusele contributed 12 points, complemented by seven rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Though not the most efficient scorer, his consistent effort and versatility made him a valuable presence throughout the night.
Implications of Chicago’s Fourth Quarter Comeback
This victory represents a crucial turning point for the Bulls as they move beyond a difficult stretch that saw them lose 11 straight games. The team’s ability to execute a cohesive, fast-paced offense combined with an aggressive defense suggests renewed confidence and potential for growth. Coach Donovan’s streamlined rotation may become a blueprint for maximizing the team’s effectiveness moving forward.
The standout performances from young players like Josh Giddey and Leonard Miller highlight Chicago’s developing core, while contributions from veterans like Collin Sexton provide balance and leadership. However, integrating players like Rob Dillingham with more playing time remains an area for future adjustment as the Bulls look ahead to the remainder of the season and next year’s campaign.
Though the win narrowed Milwaukee’s lead in the battle for the 11th playoff seed, the Bulls demonstrated that a Chicago Bulls fourth quarter comeback is certainly possible, reigniting hopes for a strong finish and challenging the narrative of a tank-driven season.
Get up or get out the way ‼️@BuzelisMatas | @CHSN__ pic.twitter.com/prQPyFzd7N
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) March 1, 2026
NICK RICHARDS FULL EXTENSION.@iamnickrichards | @CHSN__ pic.twitter.com/xoIvybvP6w
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) March 1, 2026
https://twitter.com/chicagobulls/status/2028256992419049609
