The Chicago Bulls opened the NBA Cup in-season tournament with a 135-125 victory over the New York Knicks on Friday, October 31, 2025, extending their perfect start to the season and marking their best beginning in 29 years. Josh Giddey led the way with a career-high 32 points, nearly notching a triple-double, while Nikola Vucevic added 26 points in a dominant offensive display.
The game, held at the United Center in Chicago, saw the Bulls take control early and maintain the lead for the final 39 minutes. Ayo Dosunmu contributed 22 points and nine assists, exploiting the Knicks’ defensive lapses. Chicago’s ball movement and cutting were effective, resulting in high-percentage shots and a team shooting percentage over 50%. The Bulls’ bench outscored the Knicks’ reserves 53-21, highlighting their depth and energy.
For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson scored 29 points but on 25 shots, highlighting efficiency issues. Karl-Anthony Towns had 22 points and 10 rebounds but missed key three-pointers in the closing minutes. Despite the return of Mitchell Robinson and Deuce McBride from injuries, the Knicks’ defense was porous, allowing at least 35 points in three quarters. Coach Mike Brown criticized the lack of physicality and game-plan adherence.
Brown expressed frustration post-game, stating, ‘Our ability to guard the basketball was not good in the first half. We were getting blown by possession after possession.’ Brunson echoed this, admitting to a lack of discipline in executing the strategy. The Knicks briefly cut the deficit to two points in the fourth quarter but faltered in the final minutes, getting outscored 15-9.
This matchup was part of the Emirates NBA Cup 2025, the league’s in-season tournament designed to add mid-season excitement with group play from October 31 to November. Both teams are in the same group, and the Bulls’ win gives them an early advantage in the competition, which includes incentives like prize money and additional draft picks. The tournament format aims to maintain fan engagement during the regular season.
The Bulls’ 5-0 start is their best since the 1996-97 season, reminiscent of the Michael Jordan era, and positions them as a surprise contender in the Eastern Conference. Giddey, in his first season with a new contract, has emerged as a primary playmaker, while Vucevic provides consistent interior scoring. In contrast, the Knicks have lost three straight, dropping to 2-3, and face challenges in roster integration and defensive consistency.
Looking ahead, the teams meet again on Sunday, November 2, at Madison Square Garden, offering the Knicks an immediate opportunity for redemption. For the Bulls, the focus is on sustaining their momentum and advancing in the NBA Cup, while the Knicks must quickly address their struggles to remain competitive in the conference race. The outcome of this rematch could set the tone for both teams’ early-season trajectories.