Key Takeaways:
- Chicago secured a 132-124 win over Houston, breaking a four-game losing streak against the Rockets
- Matas Buzelis’ layup with 10.2 seconds left proved decisive after the Bulls had let a 22-point lead slip
- Kevin Durant scored 40 points for Houston, recording his ninth consecutive game shooting 50% or better
Fast Start, Tense Finish in the Windy City
The Chicago Bulls produced their highest-scoring opening quarter of the season, amassing 41 points and swiftly building a 22-point lead over the Houston Rockets. Despite dominating the early proceedings, Chicago were forced to come from behind in the dying moments after Houston staged an impressive fightback.
Matas Buzelis’ layup with 10.2 seconds to play clinched victory for the Bulls, who had not defeated Houston in their previous four meetings. Collin Sexton, coming off the bench, made a significant contribution with 25 points, including 17 in the opening period. Buzelis added 23 points of his own, whilst Leonard Miller chipped in with 17.
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) March 24, 2026
Rockets’ Comeback and Notable Performances
The Rockets responded to their early deficit with a determined comeback, fuelled by Kevin Durant’s outstanding 40-point performance – including 15 points in the fourth quarter alone. Durant was remarkably efficient, hitting 15 of 23 attempts from the field. This marks the ninth consecutive game in which he has shot 50% or better from the floor, the third-longest such run in his career.
Despite Houston’s resurgence, which saw them take the lead on a Jabari Smith Jr. three-pointer with 5:56 remaining, they came up short. Alperen Sengun scored 33 points and Amen Thompson contributed 23 for the Rockets. Reed Sheppard, newly installed in the starting five, finished 3-for-14 from three-point range.
Houston’s head coach Ime Udoka was ejected in the closing seconds after receiving his second technical foul with 9.1 seconds left.
Crucial Contributions and Statistical Highlights
Jalen Smith, listed as questionable prior to tip-off due to an ankle injury, matched his season-high with 15 points to go with six rebounds and two blocks off the bench in 26 minutes for the Bulls. His team-mates Josh Giddey and Tre Jones also provided support, each scoring 15 points, with Giddey adding 13 assists.
This defeat, coupled with San Antonio’s 136-111 victory over Miami, secured the Southwest Division title for the Spurs (54-18). The Rockets now hold a 43-28 record this season.
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kevin Durant | Rockets | 40 | 7 | 5 |
| Collin Sexton | Bulls | 25 | 4 | 2 |
| Matas Buzelis | Bulls | 23 | 4 | 1 |
| Alperen Sengun | Rockets | 33 | 13 | 10 |
| Amen Thompson | Rockets | 23 | 3 | 1 |
| Jalen Smith | Bulls | 15 | 6 | 2 |
| Josh Giddey | Bulls | 15 | 7 | 13 |
| Tre Jones | Bulls | 15 | 5 | 6 |
Looking Ahead
The Rockets travel to face Minnesota on Wednesday, while the Bulls are set to meet Philadelphia away on the same night.
