The Chicago Bulls snapped an eight-game losing streak on Friday by defeating the Atlanta Hawks 125-117 in an overtime contest.
The team entered the matchup following the loss of Caleb Wilson to a “broken hand”, according to reports from ClutchPoints.
Veteran guard Norman Powell, who returned from back spasms, provided a game-high 33 points while shooting 12-for-19 from the field.
Powell attributed the team’s success to their collective mindset during the game, stating “Everybody was focused”, as noted by The Chicago Sports Network.
Josh Giddey contributed a triple-double in the win, recording 14 assists and 10 rebounds while helping the team improve to a 2-9 record.
Jalen Smith, Isaac Okoro, and Buddy Hield also provided significant offensive support during the high-scoring affair.
During the overtime period, Smith was forced to leave the game after suffering a “hard fall” that appeared to injure his hand, per ClutchPoints.
Meanwhile, Hield reached a career milestone during the game as he “surpassed Kyle Lowry” on the all-time 3-point list, according to local reports.
Matas Buzelis added 11 points and six rebounds to the team’s total effort.
The Bulls saw improved ball security compared to their previous outing against the San Antonio Spurs, as Buzelis and Giddey combined for only six turnovers.
Patrick Williams also bolstered the bench scoring by adding 13 points in the victory.
The Bulls are now preparing for a challenging road trip that begins Saturday against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Following that contest, the team will travel to face the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday and the Brooklyn Nets next Wednesday.
The Bulls are scheduled to return to their home court on November 20 to host the Washington Wizards.
The subsequent home game will feature a matchup against the Denver Nuggets on November 22.
The team hopes to maintain their focus as they navigate this upcoming stretch of the regular season schedule.