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Chicago Bulls

Conference: Eastern


Division: Central


In the News


Bulls' Deng testing wrist, is game-time decision
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng (wrist) is a game-time decision for Saturday night's contest against the Milwaukee Bucks, but sounds optimistic about a possible return.

Deng has 21 in return, Bulls top Bucks (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Derrick Rose smiles from the bench against the Milwaukee Bucks during the second half of an NBA basketball game on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012, in Milwaukee. The Bulls won 113-90.

Derrick Rose scored 21 points and had 13 assists and Luol Deng added 21 points in his return after missing seven games due to injury, as the Chicago Bulls easily beat the Milwaukee Bucks 113-90 Saturday night. Playing before a sellout Bradley Center crowd that seemed to be filled with more fans rooting for the Bulls, Deng scored on a layup from Rose just 76 seconds into the game.




Deng returns to Bulls' starting lineup vs. Bucks
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng (wrist) started in Saturday night's contest against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Rose, Deng power Bulls in rout of Bucks
Derrick Rose scored 21 points and had 13 assists and Luol Deng added 21 points in his return after missing seven games due to injury, as the Chicago Bulls easily beat the Milwaukee Bucks 113-90 Saturday night.

Rose scores 32 points, Bulls beat Knicks (AP)

New York Knicks head coach Mike D'Antoni reacts in the second half of the Knicks' 105-102 loss to the Chicago Bulls in their NBA basketball game at Madison Square Garden in New York, Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012.

Derrick Rose and Carmelo Anthony are both All-Star starters. Only Rose is the reigning MVP, and he was the one who owned Madison Square Garden on Thursday night. Rose had 32 points, 13 assists and a basket seemingly every time the Knicks were poised to rally in the Bulls' 105-102 victory. "Every time I step on the court, they're coming at me," Rose said.




Rose outduels Melo as Bulls add to Knicks' woes
Derrick Rose scored 32 points to outduel fellow All-Star starter Carmelo Anthony, and the Chicago Bulls beat the New York Knicks 105-102 Thursday night.

Bulls' Deng, Hamilton won't play vs. Knicks
Luol Deng and Rip Hamilton will remain on the sidelines vs. the Knicks.

Rose scores 15 of his 32 in fourth
Derrick Rose scored 32 points to outduel fellow All-Star starter Carmelo Anthony, and the Chicago Bulls beat the New York Knicks 105-102 Thursday night.

Bulls' Noah: 'No question' big deal hurt play
He got a raise but his numbers were down, and now Joakim Noah is saying that the pressure of a big contract was affecting his play.

Iguodala outplays Rose, leads 76ers past Bulls
Andre Iguodala helped the Philadelphia 76ers stamp themselves as a rising threat in the East, scoring 19 points and grabbing nine rebounds in a 98-82 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night.

Iguodala outplays Rose as 76ers roll (AP)

Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau watches as his team plays against the Philadelphia 76ers in the second half of an NBA basketball game onWednesday, Feb., 1, 2012, in Philadelphia. The 76ers won 98-82.

Andre Iguodala helped the Philadelphia 76ers stamp themselves as a rising threat in the East, scoring 19 points and grabbing nine rebounds in a 98-82 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night. Iguodala outplayed Derrick Rose and stuffed a month's worth of highlight video activity into one game.




Iguodala powers 76ers past Bulls
Andre Iguodala helped the Philadelphia 76ers stamp themselves as a rising threat in the East, scoring 19 points and grabbing nine rebounds in a 98-82 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night.

Publisher: Phil Jackson writing memoir (AP)
Phil Jackson's next title will be on the cover of his new book. Penguin Press says Tuesday that Jackson, the Hall of Famer who won 11 NBA championships as coach of the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers, is writing his memoir called "Eleven Rings." The book is tentatively scheduled to be out next year.

Howard says he's open to playing for Bulls
Dwight Howard says he is open to playing for the Bulls.

Rose's 35 carry Bulls over Wizards 98-88 (AP)

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 30: A member of the Wizard Girls preforms during the second half of the Washington Wizards and Chicago Bulls game at Verizon Center on January 30, 2012 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored a season-high 35 points, Carlos Boozer had 18 and Kyle Korver added 17 to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 98-88 win over the Washington Wizards on Monday night. One day after a four-point loss in Miami, the Bulls rebounded to improve their Eastern Conference-leading record to 18-5. They had lost two of their last three.




Rose goes for 35 as Bulls take care of Wizards
Derrick Rose scored a season-high 35 points, Carlos Boozer had 18 and Kyle Korver added 17 to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 98-88 win over the Washington Wizards on Monday night.

Bulls' Hamilton, Deng won't play vs. Wizards
The Chicago Bulls will be without Luol Deng (wrist) and Richard Hamilton (groin, thigh) and C.J. Watson will be a game-time decision against the Washington Wizards on Monday.

Wizards F Blatche to miss 3 to 5 weeks (AP)
Wizards forward Andray Blatche will be out three to five weeks because of a strained left calf. Washington coach Randy Wittman made the announcement before Monday night's game against Chicago. Blatche was injured in Saturday's win in Charlotte. After an MRI exam, he was advised to stay off his feet.

Pacers' Vogel defends celebration, jabs Bulls
Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel defended his team's celebration after their victory in Chicago last week and took a jab at the Bulls.

Boozer's son caught cheering for Heat
The son of Chicago Bulls star Carlos Boozer was set to get a good talking to after he was captured on video cheering for his dad's opponents, the Miami Heat, on Sunday.

Bulls' Hamilton ailing after loss, iffy for Monday
Bulls guard Richard Hamilton said he re-aggravated his groin and thigh bruise injuries during Sunday afternoon's 97-93 loss to the Heat.

Bulls bothered by call after inadvertent whistle
The Bulls believe an accidental whistle hurt them in Sunday's loss to the Heat.

Heat hang on against Bulls in closing seconds
LeBron James scored 35 points, while reigning NBA MVP Derrick Rose wasted two chances in the final 23 seconds and the Miami Heat escaped with a 97-93 win Sunday over the Chicago Bulls.

Heat hold off Bulls as Rose misses late (AP)

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) collides with Miami Heat forward Shane Battier while driving to the basket during the first half of an NBA basketball game on Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012, in Miami.

LeBron James scored 35 points, while reigning NBA MVP Derrick Rose wasted two chances in the final 23 seconds and the Miami Heat escaped with a 97-93 win Sunday over the Chicago Bulls. Chris Bosh scored 24 points and added 12 rebounds for the Heat, who never trailed -- but this win in a rematch of last season's Eastern Conference finals was not easy.




Deng (wrist) out vs. Heat, Hamilton will play
Luol Deng is out and Rip Hamilton is a game-time decision for Sunday afternoon's showdown with the Heat, according to Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau.



Deng, Hamilton game-time decisions vs. Heat
Luol Deng and Rip Hamilton are both game-time decisions for Sunday afternoon's showdown with the Heat, according to Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau.



Bucks swingman Jackson suspended one game
The NBA has suspended Milwaukee Bucks guard/forward Stephen Jackson one game for verbal abuse of an official and failure to leave the court in a timely manner in Friday night's loss at Chicago.

Bucks swingman Jackson suspended 1 game (AP)
The NBA has suspended Milwaukee Bucks guard/forward Stephen Jackson one game for verbal abuse of an official and failure to leave the court in a timely manner in Friday night's loss at Chicago. The league announced the suspension Saturday afternoon, a few hours before the Bucks were set to play the Los Angeles Lakers in Milwaukee.

Bucks' Jackson suspended one game
The NBA has suspended Milwaukee Bucks guard/forward Stephen Jackson one game for verbal abuse of an official and failure to leave the court in a timely manner in Friday night's loss at Chicago.

Bulls visit Heat in East finals rematch (AP)
A Sunday matinee matchup, with the top two teams in the Eastern Conference rekindling their playoff rivalry from a season ago. Derrick Rose says it's just another game. LeBron James offers a similar sentiment. Odds are, the past two NBA MVPs aren't being entirely truthful in their analysis. Rose and the Chicago Bulls visit James and the Miami Heat on Sunday, the first meeting this season...

Bulls' Gibson likely to play vs. Bucks; Deng iffy
Chicago Bulls forward Taj Gibson is expected to play Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks, but Luol Deng is "highly unlikely" to return.

Wade has 28 in return, Heat top Knicks (AP)

New York Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni reacts during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Miami Heat , Friday, Jan. 27, 2012, in Miami.

LeBron James scored 31 points, Dwyane Wade scored 28 in his return from a sprained right ankle, and the Miami Heat beat the 3-point-obsessed New York Knicks 99-89 on Friday night. Chris Bosh scored 13 points and James finished with eight rebounds and seven assists for Miami, which plays host to Chicago on Sunday in a rematch of last season's Eastern Conference finals.




Bulls bounce back behind Rose's 34 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 27: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls puts up a shot over Jon Leuer #30 of the Milwaukee Bucks on his way to a game-high 34 points at the United Center on January 27, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Bucks 107-100. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored a season-high 34 points to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 107-100 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night. Rose outdueled Milwaukee counterpart Brandon Jennings, hitting 14 of 24 from the floor and scoring 18 of his points in the second half. Carlos Boozer had 20 points and 13 rebounds and Joakim Noah added 15 points and 16 rebounds as Chicago bounced back from its first home...




Rose scores season-high 34 as Bulls top Bucks
Derrick Rose scored a season-high 34 points to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 107-100 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night.

Rose will 'never forget' Pacers' celebration
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose was not happy with the way the Indiana Pacers celebrated their win Wednesday night.

Pacers deal Bulls first home loss (AP)

Indiana Pacers center Roy Hibbert (55) challenges the shot of Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose , as Pacers' David West watches during the second half of an NBA basketball game on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, in Chicago. The Pacers won 95-90.

Still smarting from an emotional loss in the rugged first round of the playoffs to the Chicago Bulls nine months ago, the Indiana Pacers returned to the United Center and scrapped as if they were back in the postseason. Sure it was just another regular-season game in a schedule crammed with them following the lockout, but after the Pacers beat the Bulls 95-90 Wednesday night -- ending...




Granger leads Pacers past Bulls
Still smarting from an emotional loss in the rugged first round of the playoffs to the Chicago Bulls nine months ago, the Indiana Pacers returned to the United Center and scrapped as if they were back in the postseason.

Granger, Pacers hand Bulls first home loss
Danny Granger scored 22 points Wednesday night and the Indiana Pacers became the first visiting team to win on Chicago's home floor this season, beating the Bulls 95-90.

Bulls' Deng hopes to avoid wrist surgery (AP)
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng hopes he won't need surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left wrist. Deng was injured in the fourth quarter Saturday against Charlotte and figures to miss at least a few more games after sitting out Monday's win over the New Jersey Nets. He said the wrist is still sore, but the pain has eased "a lot" the past few days.

Deng might need surgery for wrist
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng hopes he won't need surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left wrist.

Bulls' Deng has torn wrist ligament, out 'a while'
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng has torn ligaments in his left wrist and will be "out for a while," according to coach Tom Thibodeau.

Rose: Toe might be issue rest of season
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose says his sprained left big toe might bother him the rest of the season.

Bulls' Rose game-time call vs. Nets; Deng out?
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose participated fully in Monday's shootaround and is a game-time call to face the New Jersey Nets.

Banged-up Bulls cruise past Nets 110-95 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 23: Richard Hamilton #32 of the Chicago Bulls shoots over Shawne Williams #7 of the New Jersey Nets at the United Center on January 23, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Nets 110-95. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose and Richard Hamilton each scored 22 points to lead the banged-up Chicago Bulls to an easy 110-95 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Monday. Hamilton set season highs in points and assists (10). Rose added eight assists and hung with Deron Williams after missing four games with a sprained left big toe.




Rose, banged-up Bulls easily get past Nets
Derrick Rose and Richard Hamilton each scored 22 points to lead the banged-up Chicago Bulls to an easy 110-95 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Monday.

Bulls' Rose (toe) will play Monday; Deng out
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose will face the New Jersey Nets after missing the last four games with turf toe.

Bulls' Deng undergoes MRI on injured left wrist
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng underwent an MRI on his left wrist Sunday afternoon and will be re-evaluated by team physicians on Monday morning.

Bulls' Deng undergoes MRI on injured left wrist
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng underwent an MRI on his left wrist Sunday afternoon and will be re-evaluated by team physicians on Monday morning.

Boozer helps banged-up Bulls hold off Bobcats
Carlos Boozer scored 17 of his 23 points in the second half to lead the injury-depleted Chicago Bulls to a 95-89 win over the struggling Charlotte Bobcats on Saturday night.

Bulls improve to 15-3 without Rose, Noah (AP)

Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng (9) and Charlotte Bobcats guard D.J. Augustin (14) chase a loose ball during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game in Chicago on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012. The Bulls won 95-89.

Carlos Boozer scored 17 of his 23 points in the second half to lead the injury-depleted Chicago Bulls to a 95-89 win over the struggling Charlotte Bobcats on Saturday night. Luol Deng added 22 points and eight rebounds as the Bulls won their seventh straight at home and improved to an NBA-best 15-3 despite the absence of two starters and two key reserves.




Bulls' Rose (toe) misses 4th consecutive game
Bulls players Derrick Rose, Taj Gibson and John Lucas III were out Saturday with injuries.

Bulls' Rose (toe) to miss 4th consecutive game
Derrick Rose, Taj Gibson and John Lucas III are out Saturday with injuries.

MVP Rose 'regrets’ playing with injury
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose opened up Friday about the turf toe injury that may force him to miss a third straight game Friday night.

Bulls cruise without Rose; embarrass Cavs
Luol Deng scored 21 points, Carlos Boozer added 19 and 14 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls managed easily without superstar Derrick Rose, embarrassing the Cleveland Cavaliers 114-75 on Friday night.

Bulls' Rose: Little 'regret' about playing on toe
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose said he has a little "regret" about playing two games last weekend on an injured toe that now threatens to keep him out of a third straight game.

Bulls throttle Cavs by 39 without Rose (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers ' Anthony Parker , right, and Kyrie Irving react on the bench late in the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls in Cleveland on Friday,  Jan. 20, 2012.

Luol Deng scored 21 points, Carlos Boozer added 19 and 14 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls managed easily without superstar Derrick Rose, embarrassing the Cleveland Cavaliers 114-75 on Friday night. Rose missed his third straight game with a strained left big toe, but the Bulls barely missed the NBA's reigning MVP and handed the Cavs their worst home loss.




Rose sits out as Bulls crush Cavs
Luol Deng scored 21 points, Carlos Boozer added 19 and 14 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls managed easily without superstar Derrick Rose, embarrassing the Cleveland Cavaliers 114-75 on Friday night.

Toe injury sidelines Rose for 3rd straight game
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose said he has a little "regret" about playing two games last weekend on an injured toe that now threatens to keep him out of a third straight game.

Slim Curry makes long-awaited Heat debut (AP)
Eddy Curry is back on an NBA floor. The No. 4 overall pick in the 2001 draft made his Miami Heat debut Thursday against the Los Angeles Lakers, 764 days after his most-recent NBA appearance. Curry checked in with 2:20 left in the first quarter. Curry had not played since Dec. 17, 2009 for New York against Chicago.

Rose out of practice, game-time call Friday
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose did not practice Thursday afternoon and is a game-time decision for Friday night's game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Suns beat Knicks to end 5-game skid (AP)

New York Knicks ' Carmelo Anthony (7) walks off the court during a time out in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Phoenix Suns , Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012, in New York. The Knicks lost the game 91-88.

Steve Nash had 26 points and 11 assists, Shannon Brown hit a crucial 3-pointer that was as ugly as this game, and the Phoenix Suns snapped a five-game losing streak with a 91-88 victory over the New York Knicks on Wednesday night. Brown and Grant Hill each scored 14 points for the Suns, who bounced back from an embarrassing 118-97 loss to a Chicago team without Derrick Rose a night earlier.




Thibodeau: Bulls will 'be smart' about Rose
Derrick Rose won't practice on Thursday as he recovers from a toe injury, and Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said the team will "be smart" with its plan for playing the reigning MVP.

Boozer has 31, Rose-less Bulls rout Suns (AP)

Chicago Bulls guard C.J. Watson (7) shoots over Phoenix Suns guard Steve Nash (13) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012, in Chicago. The Bulls won 118-97 with Watson scoring 23 points.

Carlos Boozer scored 26 of his season-high 31 points in the first half, leading the short-handed Chicago Bulls to a 118-97 win over the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night. Boozer hit 12 of 15 shots in the opening half and scored eight points during a 12-point burst that opened up a 20-point lead for Chicago, which was playing without Derrick Rose for the second straight game because of a sprained left...




Bulls' Rose (toe) misses second straight game
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose said he will not play Tuesday night against the Phoenix Suns.

Boozer's big first half propels Bulls
Carlos Boozer scored 26 of his season-high 31 points in the first half, leading the short-handed Chicago Bulls to a 118-97 win over the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night.

Bulls' Rose a late scratch vs. Grizzlies (AP)
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose was a late scratch from Monday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies because of a sprained left toe. Rose had warmed up and seemed ready to play. Chicago coach Tom Thibodeau had said Rose's availability was a game-time decision, but he was anticipating he would play.

Bulls' Rose sits out with aggravated toe injury
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose sat out Monday's game with a toe injury.

Grizzlies end Bulls' run at 5, Rose sits (AP)

Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose , right, watches the game against the Memphis Grizzlies from the bench with Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer , center, in the second half of an NBA basketball game on Monday, Jan. 16, 2012, in Memphis, Tenn. The Grizzlies defeated the Bulls 102-86.

Rudy Gay scored 24 points and Mike Conley added 20 points and eight assists Monday, leading the Memphis Grizzlies past Chicago 102-86 and ending the Bulls' five-game winning streak. The Bulls played without leading scorer Derrick Rose, who missed his second game in the last four with a sprained left toe.




Grizz handle Rose-less Bulls at home
Rudy Gay scored 24 points and Mike Conley added 20 points and eight assists Monday, leading the Memphis Grizzlies past Chicago 102-86 and ending the Bulls' five-game winning streak.

Bulls win fifth straight, move to 12-2 (AP)

Toronto Raptors guard Jose Calderon (8) rebounds the ball against Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose (1) during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game in Chicago on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012. The Bulls won 77-64.

Derrick Rose had 18 points and 11 assists, leading the Chicago Bulls to a 77-64 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Saturday night. Rose keyed a seven-point burst to open the fourth period, assisting on three straight field goals. John Lucas III hit a 3-pointer and Taj Gibson scored twice, opening up an 11-point lead for Chicago.




Bulls beat Raptors in low scoring game
Derrick Rose had 18 points and 11 assists, leading the Chicago Bulls to a 77-64 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Saturday night.

Banged-up Rose says he'll play vs. Celtics
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose participated in the team shootaround and said he would play in Friday's game against the Boston Celtics despite a sprained toe.

Bulls' Rose (toe) game-time decision vs. Celtics
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose participated in the team shootaround but will be a game-time decision for Friday's game against the Boston Celtics as he recovers from a sprained toe.

Rose returns as Bulls hold off Celtics charge
Derrick Rose returned from a one-game absence to score 25 points and help the Chicago Bulls hold off a second-half charge and beat the Boston Celtics 88-79 on Friday night.

Rose returns, helps Bulls hold off Celts (AP)

BOSTON, MA - JANUARY 13:  Kevin Garnett #5 of the Boston Celtics shoves Joakim Noah #13 of the Chicago Bulls on January 13, 2012 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Chicago Bulls defeated the Boston Celtics 88-79. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose returned from a one-game absence to score 25 points and help the Chicago Bulls hold off a second-half charge to beat the Boston Celtics 88-79 on Friday night. The Celtics had trimmed a 52-33 halftime deficit to 67-66 on a 3-pointer by Mickael Pietrus with 10 minutes left in the game. Then Boston missed its next two shots, while Rose scored four straight points.




Rose takes over game in win vs. Celtics
Derrick Rose returned from a one-game absence to score 25 points and help the Chicago Bulls hold off a second-half charge and beat the Boston Celtics 88-79 on Friday night.

Banged-up Rose in for Bulls against Celtics
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose participated in the team shootaround and played in Friday's game against the Boston Celtics despite a sprained toe.

Bulls' Thibodeau backs struggling Noah, Boozer
His two starting -- and most expensive -- big men might struggle to find their way on to the court in the fourth quarter, but Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said he is still depending on Joakim Noah and Carlos Boozer.

Bulls' Rose gets best of Wolves' Love
Derrick Rose and Kevin Love were what mattered Tuesday night, the reason to watch a 111-100 Minnesota loss to the Chicago Bulls.

Lucas shines with Rose out in Bulls' win (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 11:  Head coach Tom Thibodeau of the Chicago Bulls gives instructions to his team against the Washington Wizards at the United Center on January 11, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Wizards 78-64. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

John Lucas III scored a career-high 25 points filling in for injured Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls beat the Washington Wizards 78-64 on Wednesday for their third victory in three nights. Lucas, starting for the first time in his 70-game NBA career, was at the point in place of MVP Rose, who was out with a sprained big left toe.




With Rose (turf toe) out, Bulls sign guard James
With Derrick Rose hampered by turf toe and out Wednesday, the Chicago Bulls signed Mike James from the D-League.

With Rose (turf toe) hurting, Bulls sign G James
With Derrick Rose hampered by turf toe and unlikely to play on Wednesday, the Chicago Bulls signed Mike James from the D-League.

Sources: Bulls call up PG James from D-League
The Bulls saw enough from Mike James in his debut this week with the Erie Bayhawks at the D-League Showcase to sign him from the NBA's official minor league, according to sources close to the situation.

Bulls' Rose hopes to hold Obama to his promise
President Barack Obama made a promise to Derrick Rose, and the reigning MVP is intent on making him keep it.

Rose tallies 31 points as Bulls top Rubio, Wolves
Derrick Rose scored a season-high 31 points and had 11 assists to outlast Ricky Rubio in a thrilling duel, leading the Chicago Bulls to a 111-100 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night.

Rose's 31 lift Bulls over Rubio, Wolves (AP)

Minnesota Timberwolves ' Ricky Rubio of Spain, left, and Chicago Bulls ' Derrick Rose part after they exchanged a hug following the Bulls' 111-100 win in an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012, in Minneapolis. Rose scored a season-high 31 points and had 11 assists to outlast Ricky Rubio in a thrilling duel. Rubio had 13 points, 12 assists and four rebounds.

Derrick Rose scored a season-high 31 points and had 11 assists to outlast Ricky Rubio in a thrilling duel, leading the Chicago Bulls to a 111-100 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night. Luol Deng had 21 points and 11 rebounds, and Kyle Korver scored 13 points off the bench for the Bulls, who appeared to be on their way to a blowout early before Rubio led the Wolves back.




Bulls' Hamilton, Watson doubtful against Pistons
Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said guards Richard Hamilton and C.J. Watson are doubtful for Monday night's game against the Detroit Pistons.

Hawks' Williams out 2 games with ankle sprain
Atlanta Hawks forward Marvin Williams will miss at least two games because of a sprained left ankle he suffered in Saturday's win over Chicago.

Hawks F Williams out at least 2 games (AP)
Atlanta Hawks forward Marvin Williams will miss at least two games because of a sprained left ankle he suffered in Saturday's win over Chicago. The Hawks say Williams will not be with the team for both Monday night's game at New Jersey and Wednesday's game at Indiana. Williams is averaging 10.9 points and 6.0 rebounds as the starting small forward.

Bulls win 13th in row against Pistons (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 09:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls puts up a shot againstg the Detroit Pistons at the United Center on January 9, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pistons 92-68. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Carlos Boozer scored 23 points and the Chicago Bulls beat Detroit 92-68 on Monday night for their 13th consecutive victory against the Pistons. Derrick Rose added 22 points and eight assists for Chicago, which bounced back from Saturday night's lackluster 109-94 loss at Atlanta. Ronnie Brewer finished with 12 points, and Boozer also had eight rebounds.




Hawks' Williams out with ankle injury
Atlanta Hawks forward Marvin Williams will miss at least two games because of a sprained left ankle he suffered in Saturday's win over Chicago.

Hawks put end to Bulls' 6-game winning streak
Josh Smith scored 25 points, Joe Johnson and Vladimir Radmanovic each added 17 and the Hawks beat Chicago 109-94 Saturday night to snap the Bulls' six-game winning streak.



Hawks stop Bulls' 6-game winning streak (AP)

Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith (5) shoots as Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer , right, defends during the first half of an NBA basketball game on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012, in Atlanta.Atlanta won 109-94.

Josh Smith scored 25 points, Joe Johnson and Vladimir Radmanovic each added 17 and the Atlanta Hawks beat Chicago 109-94 Saturday night to snap the Bulls' six-game winning streak. John Lucas III had 14 of his team-high 16 points in the fourth quarter for Chicago, which never led. The Bulls, who dropped to 7-2, had been off to their best start since going 12-0 in 1996-97.




Hawks snap Bulls' six-game win streak
Josh Smith scored 25 points, Joe Johnson and Vladimir Radmanovic each added 17 and the Atlanta Hawks beat Chicago 109-94 Saturday night to snap the Bulls' six-game winning streak.

Bulls hold off late Magic run to win 6th straight
Derrick Rose and Luol Deng each scored 21 points and the Chicago Bulls held off a fourth-quarter surge by Orlando to beat the Magic 97-83 on Friday night for their sixth straight victory.

Bulls' Rose (elbow) to face Magic; Hamilton iffy
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose, who fell on his left elbow Wednesday, will play Friday night against the Orlando Magic.

Boozer talks on Bulls' win over Magic
Carlos Boozer talks with Sun Sports after Chicago's 97-83 win over Orlando.

Bulls win sixth straight, hold off Magic (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) goes after a rebound against Chicago Bulls ' Joakim Noah , right, during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Jan. 6, 2012, in Orlando, Fla.

Derrick Rose and Luol Deng each scored 21 points and the Chicago Bulls held off a fourth-quarter surge by Orlando to beat the Magic 97-83 on Friday night for their sixth straight victory. Carlos Boozer added 20 points for Chicago, which led by as many as 17 before the lead was trimmed to three. The Bulls closed the game on a 17-6 run.




Bulls hold off Magic for win
Derrick Rose and Luol Deng each scored 21 points and the Chicago Bulls held off a fourth-quarter surge by Orlando to beat the Magic 97-83 on Friday night for their sixth straight victory.

Bulls roll as Hamilton cheered in Detroit return
Richard Hamilton scored 14 points in his return to The Palace, and the Chicago Bulls shut down the Detroit Pistons in a 99-83 victory Wednesday night.

Hamilton lifts Bulls in Detroit return (AP)

Detroit Pistons head coach Lawrence Frank gives instructions during a timeout against the Chicago Bulls in the fourth quarter of their NBA basketball game in Auburn Hills, Mich., Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012. Chicago won 99-83.

Richard Hamilton scored 14 points in his return to The Palace, and the Chicago Bulls shut down the Detroit Pistons in a 99-83 victory Wednesday night. Hamilton started after missing the previous two games with a sore left groin. He received a warm welcome from Detroit fans, many of whom stood and applauded the veteran guard who spent nine years with the Pistons before being waived prior to this...




Rose, Hamilton lead Bulls past Pistons
Richard Hamilton scored 14 points in his return to The Palace, and the Chicago Bulls shut down the Detroit Pistons in a 99-83 victory Wednesday night.

Return uncertain for Bulls guard Watson (elbow)
Chicago Bulls point guard C.J. Watson revealed that the left elbow injury he suffered during Sunday night's win over the Memphis Grizzlies was actually a dislocation and his return is uncertain.

Down 19, Bulls beat Hawks on late layup (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 03: Running back Matt Forte of the Chicago Bears takes in a game against between the Chicago Bulls and the Atlanta Hawks at the United Center on January 3, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Hawks 76-74. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Luol Deng's layup with 3.7 seconds to play lifted the Chicago Bulls to a 76-74 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. Derrick Rose scored 17 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter to rally the Bulls from a 19-point deficit. Coming out of a timeout with the score tied in the final seconds, Deng cut along the baseline and took a feed from Joakim Noah to put Chicago ahead.




Deng's late layup lifts Bulls past Hawks
Luol Deng's layup with 3.7 seconds to play lifted the Chicago Bulls to a 76-74 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night.

Bulls: Guards Hamilton, Watson are day to day
Bulls guards Rip Hamilton (groin) and C.J. Watson (left elbow) are both day to day, according to Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau.



Boozer, Bulls pound Grizzlies in home opener
Carlos Boozer scored 17 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls easily won their home opener, pounding the Memphis Grizzlies 104-64 on Sunday night.

Bulls' Hamilton scratched, Watson hurt vs. Grizz
Bulls guard Rip Hamilton was a late scratch before Sunday night's game against the Grizzlies because of a sore groin.



Bulls rip Grizzlies in home opener (AP)

Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer (5) looks down on Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) after a dunk during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game in Chicago on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012. Boozer contributed 17 points and 11 rebounds as the Bulls won 104-64.

Carlos Boozer scored 17 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls easily won their home opener, pounding the Memphis Grizzlies 104-64 on Sunday night. Derrick Rose finished with 16 points after a slow start. Ronnie Brewer scored 17 with Richard Hamilton a late scratch because of a groin injury.




Bulls' Hamilton a late scratch with injured groin
Bulls guard Rip Hamilton was a late scratch before Sunday night's game against the Grizzlies because of a sore groin.



Bulls weather Clips' fast start to pull away in 4th
Derrick Rose had 29 points and 16 assists, and the Chicago Bulls pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat the Los Angeles Clippers 114-101 Friday night.

Rose's 29 points, 16 assists power Bulls (AP)

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 30:   DeAndre Jordan #6 of the Los Angeles Clippers fights for the ball with Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls at Staples Center on December 30, 2011 in Los Angeles, California.  The Bulls won 114-101.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose had 29 points and 16 assists, and the Chicago Bulls pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat the Los Angeles Clippers 114-101 Friday night. Luol Deng and Joakim Noah added 19 points apiece and Richard Hamilton had 16 for the Bulls against their former coach, Vinny Del Negro. Blake Griffin had 34 points and 13 rebounds for the Clippers, who kept it close most of the way coming off a...




Rose has 29 points, 16 assists in win
Derrick Rose had 29 points and 16 assists, and the Chicago Bulls pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat the Los Angeles Clippers 114-101 Friday night.

Bulls beat Kings behind early 15-0 run (AP)

Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose (1) drives to the basket agains Sacramento Kings defender Chuck Hayes during the second half of an NBA basketball game in Sacramento, Calif., on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011. The Bulls won 108-98.

Derrick Rose had 19 points and eight assists and the Chicago Bulls earned a 108-98 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night. The Bulls ran off 15 straight points early in the game and never trailed again in defeating the youthful Kings, the NBA's youngest team. Carlos Boozer had 16 points and 15 rebounds for the Bulls (2-1).




Bulls reel off 15 straight early to drub Kings
Derrick Rose had 19 points and eight assists and the Chicago Bulls earned a 108-98 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night.

Warriors G Curry out against Knicks (AP)
Golden State guard Stephen Curry's sore right ankle will keep him out of Wednesday's game against the New York Knicks. Curry was injured during Monday's 99-91 win over Chicago when he landed awkwardly on the foot of the Bulls' Kyle Korver. It was the second time in seven days Curry had rolled his ankle, the same one he underwent surgery on during the offseason.

Jackson's first win comes against Bulls (AP)

Golden State Warriors ' Stephen Curry (30) reacts after injuring his ankle as teammate Monta Ellis (8) looks on during the second half against Chicago Bulls in a NBA basketball game Monday, Dec. 26, 2011, in Oakland, Calif.  Warriors defeated the Bulls 99-91.

Stephen Curry had 21 points and 10 assists, Monta Ellis scored 26 points and the Golden State Warriors beat the Chicago Bulls 99-91 on Monday, giving rookie coach Mark Jackson his first victory at any level. David Lee added 22 points and seven rebounds and Dominic McGuire made three free throws in the final 47 seconds to seal the win for Golden State.




Bulls rally late as Rose's jumper finishes Lakers
Derrick Rose scored 22 points and hit a short go-ahead jumper with 4.8 seconds to play, and the Chicago Bulls rallied from an 11-point deficit in the final four minutes for a 88-87 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday.

Rose shot caps Bulls rally, stuns Lakers (AP)

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 25:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls drives against Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on December 25, 2011 in Los Angeles, California.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 22 points and hit a short go-ahead jumper with 4.8 seconds to play, and the Chicago Bulls rallied from an 11-point deficit in the final four minutes for an 88-87 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday. Luol Deng scored 21 points and blocked Kobe Bryant's short shot right before the buzzer as the Bulls hung on for a thrilling finish to both clubs' first Christmas...




Rose wants to play for Bulls his entire career
Derrick Rose's answer to whether he'd like to emulate Kobe Bryant by playing his entire career in one city should sit well with Bulls fans.

Gametrax: Bulls-Lakers
Chicago tries to put hurt on Kobe, Los Angeles.

Kobe leads Lakers against Rose's Bulls (AP)
A bizarre offseason for the Los Angeles Lakers has left many unsure what to expect from one of the NBA's most storied franchises. Expectations couldn't get much higher for reigning MVP Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls despite not much of an offseason stir. It appears a banged-up Kobe Bryant will play in the season opener as the Lakers host Rose and the Bulls in a much-anticipated...

Hamilton: Kuester wasn't the problem in Detroit
Rip Hamilton said John Kuester wasn't the problem in Detroit.

Bulls' Rose on Eastern finals: I'm not over it yet
Bulls point guard Derrick Rose> admitted that he still hasn't completely gotten over the fact that his team lost in five games to the Heat in the Eastern Conference finals last spring.



Hamilton: Kuester wasn't the problem in Detroit
Rip Hamilton said John Kuester wasn't the problem in Detroit.

Kobe says he will play in season opener
Lakers guard Kobe Bryant is expected to play in the season opener Sunday against Chicago, saying his right wrist "should be fine."

Bryant (wrist) 'should be fine' for game vs. Bulls
Kobe Bryant said he should be "fine" to play on Christmas Day despite an injured wrist.

Rose, Bulls expect Kobe (wrist) to play Sunday
Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant has a torn ligament in wrist, but the Chicago Bulls still expect him to play on Christmas Day.

Quirks galore in compressed schedule (AP)
Carmelo Anthony's return to Denver is delayed for another year. LeBron James and Dwyane Wade won't be visiting Sacramento anytime soon. Fans in Chicago will only be seeing Kobe Bryant on television this season. The NBA sought competitive balance. What it got was schedule imbalance. One of the many consequences of the lockout, besides hundreds of lost games and hundreds of millions of lost...

Bulls announce five-year extension for Rose
The Chicago Bulls have made it official: Reigning MVP Derrick Rose has agreed to a five-year contract extension.

Hamilton to start for Bulls Tuesday vs. Pacers
Rip Hamilton will start for the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday against the Indiana Pacers at the United Center.

Seeking depth at PG, Hawks sign Pargo (AP)
The Atlanta Hawks, looking for point guard depth while Kirk Hinrich recovers from shoulder surgery, have signed seven-year veteran Jannero Pargo. Jeff Teague is expected to open the season as the Hawks' starting point guard. Pargo, who most recently played for the Chicago Bulls in the 2009-10 season, gives Atlanta another contender for a backup spot.

Hamilton has 13 points in Bulls debut (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 20: Head coach Frank Vogel of the Indiana Pacers calls a play during a preseason game against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on December 20, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pacers 93-85. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Carlos Boozer scored 24 points to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 93-85 win over the Indiana Pacers in a preseason game Tuesday night. Earlier in the day, NBA MVP Derrick Rose agreed to a five-year contract extension with the Bulls worth approximately $94 million. Rose had 12 points and nine assists. Richard Hamilton added 13 points and six assists in his Bulls debut.




Source: Bulls' Rose agrees to 5-year extension
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose has agreed to a five-year contract extension worth about $94 million, according to a source.

Report: Bulls' Rose gets $94M extension (AP)
The Chicago Tribune is reporting that reigning MVP Derrick Rose has agreed to a five-year contract extension with the Chicago Bulls worth approximately $94 million. The Tribune cited anonymous sources in its report, which also said the new deal will start in the 2012-13 season, when Rose is eligible to make about $16 million.

Report: Rose, Bulls agree on $94M deal
Reigning NBA MVP Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls have agreed to a five-year contract extension worth about $94 million, the Chicago Tribune reported, citing sources.

Thibodeau: Hamilton will be game-day decision
Bulls coach says Rip Hamilton a game-day decision for preseason finale.

Bulls' Hamilton unsure if he will play Tuesday
Newly acquired Bulls guard Rip Hamilton is still unsure whether he will play or not during the team's second preseason game against the Pacers on Tuesday night.



Bulls' Hamilton game-time decision vs. Pacers
Newly signed guard Richard Hamilton will be a game-time decision for the Chicago Bulls' preseason opener against the Indiana Pacers on Friday.

Rose, Deng help lift Bulls past Pacers (AP)

Indiana Pacers head coach Frank Vogel calls a play in the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game against the Chicago Bulls in Indianapolis, Friday, Dec. 16, 2011.

Derrick Rose and Luol Deng each scored 16 points to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Indiana Pacers 95-86 on Friday night in the preseason opener for both teams. C.J. Watson added 15 points for the Bulls, who brought their share of red-clad fans for the game that had some of the intensity of a key regular-season game.




Hamilton won't play in Bulls' preseason opener
Newly signed guard Rip Hamilton won't play in the Chicago Bulls' preseason opener against the Indiana Pacers on Friday.

Hamilton won't play in Bulls' preseason opener
Newly signed guard Richard Hamilton won't play in the Chicago Bulls' preseason opener against the Indiana Pacers on Friday.

Bulls' Rose on recruiting: 'That's just not me'
The Bulls' Derrick Rose doesn't feel he'd ever be comfortable recruiting players.

Bulls, Hamilton close to 3-year deal
A person familiar with the situation says veteran guard Richard Hamilton is closing in on a three-year, $15 million deal with the Chicago Bulls.

Ex-Piston Hamilton inks deal with Bulls
Rip Hamilton signed with the Chicago Bulls, the team announced Wednesday night.

Source: Hamilton set to sign with Bulls
Rip Hamilton is set to arrive in Chicago on Wednesday night, sign with the Chicago Bulls and practice with his new team on Thursday, according to a league source.

Bulls, Hamilton close on 3-year deal (AP)
A person familiar with the situation says veteran guard Richard Hamilton is closing in on a three-year, $15 million deal with the Chicago Bulls. The person spoke Wednesday afternoon on the condition of anonymity because the contract had not been finalized. The three-time All-Star cleared waivers as expected after being bought out by Detroit this week, ending a nine-year run in which the Pistons won...

Kerr: Hamilton may be great pick-up for Bulls
Steve Kerr knows what it's like to be a shooting guard alongside someone who needs to dominate the basketball, which is why he believes Rip Hamilton would be a great fit on the Chicago Bulls.

Rose thinks he can lead Bulls to 'multiple' titles
Derrick Rose says Chicago Bulls have legit chance to win multiple championships.

Pippen to sue about bankruptcy reports
Chicago Bulls great Scottie Pippen has filed a lawsuit against multiple media outlets, claiming they falsely reported that he went bankrupt.

Bulls' Boozer: Hamilton would be great addition
Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau and power forward Carlos Boozer joined the chorus of those praising veteran sharpshooter Richard Hamilton, who is expected to sign with the Bulls on Wednesday after he clears waivers.

Bulls re-sign veteran F Scalabrine (AP)
The Chicago Bulls have re-signed veteran forward Brian Scalabrine. The 6-foot-9 Scalabrine played in 18 games for Chicago last season and averaged 1.1 points. He is a 10-year NBA veteran and has averaged 3.2 points and 2.1 rebounds in 492 regular-season games. He's also participated in 39 playoff games.

Blazers to sign veteran C Thomas, sources say
Veteran enforcer Kurt Thomas is signing a two-year deal with the Portland Trail Blazers, according to sources with knowledge of the deal.

Howard: I don't want to miss my chance
Dwight Howard broke his silence to confirm he has asked for a trade from the Orlando Magic as the Chicago Bulls reportedly geared up to enter the race for the prized 6-foot-11 center.

Bulls GM Forman mum on Howard, Hamilton (AP)
Chicago Bulls general manager Gar Forman had little to say about Richard Hamilton and Dwight Howard. He was more interested in talking about the players on the roster. Hamilton is widely expected to land in Chicago once his buyout with Detroit is finalized and he clears waivers, joining MVP Derrick Rose in the backcourt.

Blazers sign Thomas, NBA's oldest player (AP)
The Portland Trail Blazers have signed 16-yard NBA veteran center Kurt Thomas. Terms of the deal were not announced. At 39, Thomas is the NBA's oldest active player. He played last season with Chicago, averaging 4.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 52 games, including 37 starts. For his career, Thomas has averaged 8.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.1 assists.

Blazers sign veteran center Thomas from Bulls
Veteran enforcer Kurt Thomas is signing a two-year deal with the Portland Trail Blazers, according to sources with knowledge of the deal.

Source: Bulls to pursue Hamilton; Rose a fan
The Chicago Bulls plan to pursue Rip Hamilton when he is bought out by the Detroit Pistons, according to a source familiar with the situation, and Derrick Rose said Hamilton would be a good fit.

Source: Bulls hope to be in Howard trade talks
The Bulls hope to discuss a trade for Magic center Dwight Howard.

Bulls appear to be waiting on Rip
The Chicago Bulls continue to insist they're fine as is, not that they'd mind a little help.

Bulls appear to be waiting on Hamilton (AP)
The Chicago Bears continue to insist they're fine as is, not that they'd mind a little help. To that end, Richard Hamilton could be the man. The veteran guard is widely expected to sign with Chicago once his buyout with Detroit is finalized and join MVP Derrick Rose in the backcourt. He would have to clear waivers and pass a physical, but the Bulls appear to be a fit.

Raptors sign G Rasual Butler (AP)
The Toronto Raptors have signed veteran free-agent forward Rasual Butler The six-foot-seven shooting guard split last season between the Clippers and Chicago Bulls and started in a combined 47 games, mostly with L.A. Butler's best statistical season came in 2009-10 with the Clippers when he averaged career bests of 11.9 points and 33.0 minutes in 82 games.

Bulls' PF Boozer 'very motivated' by criticism
Chicago Bulls power forward Carlos Boozer said he is ready to prove his critics wrong.

Bulls to meet Pacers to open preseason (AP)
The Indiana Pacers will open the preseason hosting the Chicago Bulls in a rematch of the first-round playoff series. The game will be Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. at Conseco Fieldhouse. It will be the first chance for fans to see Indianapolis native George Hill in a Pacers uniform since he was traded to Indiana on draft day.

Bulls, Blackhawks look to change 'Circus Trip'
Blackhawks chairman Rocky Wirtz is in discussions with Ringling Bros. to change the November dates when the circus inhabits the United Center, forcing the Hawks and Chicago Bulls to be on the road for two weeks around Thanksgiving.

Butler meets with Bulls during free-agent tour
In their search to find an upgrade at shooting guard, the Chicago Bulls met with free agent Caron Butler on Monday.

Bulls interested in Caron Butler (AP)
Derrick Rose wasn't sure this day would come. With a new collective bargaining agreement tentatively in place, the Chicago Bulls and the rest of the teams opened their doors to players on Thursday in anticipation of practices starting on Dec. 9. Rose, the league's reigning MVP, thought "for a minute toward the end" the season might get cancelled.

Bulls eye Wizards' restricted free agent Young
The Chicago Bulls have talked to the representative of Wizards restricted free agent Nick Young, but Mark Bartelstein emphasized Young is not in a hurry to leave Washington.

Source: New Rose deal 'top priority' for Bulls
The Chicago Bulls' "top priority" during Wednesday morning's initial contact period between teams and agents will be setting up the framework of Derrick Rose's contract extension, according to a league source.

'Derrick Rose Rule' surprises Bulls' young star
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose was surprised there's a provision in the NBA's pending new CBA that's being called 'The Derrick Rose Rule' and rewards players of his caliber.

Lakers' World Peace tweets frustrations
The Lakers star, formerly known as Ron Artest, posted a series of tweets Monday night challenging Charlotte Bobcats majority owner Michael Jordan to a game of one-on-one, saying if he beat the Chicago Bulls legend then the two sides would have to agree to end the lockout.

Agent: Bulls' Deng considering overseas offers
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng is considering multiple offers to play overseas if the NBA lockout continues, according to his agent Herb Rudoy.

Bulls unbeaten so far in our NBA season simulation
Chicago's off to a great start. Miami, not so much, in our 2011-12 season simulation.

NBA woes keep Jordan from Presidents Cup (AP)
NBA labor issues will keep Michael Jordan from going to Australia to be an assistant captain for the U.S. team at the Presidents Cup. Fred Couples brought Jordan along to the last Presidents Cup in San Francisco, and signed him up again for the Nov. 17-20 matches at Royal Melbourne. The Chicago Bulls great was to be an assistant captain with Jay Haas.

Phil: Bulls need to add pieces to help Rose
Phil Jackson said the Chicago Bulls overachieved last season, and he subscribes to the conventional thinking that the Bulls need to add pieces to help Derrick Rose.

Phil believes Krause will make Hall eventually
Phil Jackson said Thursday he believes Jerry Krause ultimately will make it to the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame, but it may take a while as it did with recent inductee Tex Winter.

Rose wants to do away with NBA salary cap
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose has established himself among the elite NBA players in just three seasons. His salary, however, doesn't come anywhere near the top in the league, let alone his own team.

Rose wants to do away with NBA salary cap
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose has established himself among the elite NBA players in just three seasons. His salary, however, doesn't come anywhere near the top in the league, let alone his own team.

Bulls' Rose: Lockout 'definitely not' players' fault
Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose says NBA lockout definitely not players' fault.

Bulls' Rose: Owners to blame for lockout (AP)
Derrick Rose says blame for the NBA's current labor impasse rests squarely with team owners, not players. "It's very sad, but everybody knows it's not our fault," the Chicago Bulls point guard and reigning NBA most valuable player said Saturday. "If it was up to us we'd be out there playing.

Bulls F Deng featured on new English currency
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng is one of four people being featured on new currency in England.

Barkley salary to charity during NBA lockout?
TNT analyst Charles Barkley said Tuesday he would feel uncomfortable drawing a paycheck during the NBA lockout, so he's considering donating his salary to charity.

Jazz add Lowe to complete coaching staff (AP)
The Utah Jazz have completed their coaching staff by hiring Sidney Lowe. Lowe spent the past five seasons as head coach at his alma mater, North Carolina State. He also was a teammate of Jazz coach Tyrone Corbin when they played for the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1989-90. As a player, Lowe was a second-round pick of the Chicago Bulls.

Ex-Bull Grant: Boozer must be Rose's Pippen
Horace Grant said Carlos Boozer has to become Derrick Rose's version of Scottie Pippen for the Bulls to win a championship.

Rose: Lockout unnecessary, could go overseas
Derrick Rose says the NBA lockout is unnecessary and he will consider playing overseas if it drags on.

Rose would consider playing overseas (AP)
Derrick Rose says the NBA lockout is unnecessary and he will consider playing overseas if it drags on. For now, the Chicago Bulls' star hopes the season can be salvaged, but he also made one thing clear. He sees "no reason billionaires and millionaires should be arguing about money." While negotiators for the league and players met Tuesday in New York hoping to move closer to an...

Barkley: MJ's fine a drop in bucket, rule silly
Charles Barkley doesn't feel sorry for his buddy Michael Jordan, who recently was fined $100,000 for talking about the NBA lockout, but Barkley doesn't like the league's gag order.

Wade: Heat 'set a trend' by teaming All-Stars
Love or hate the Miami Heat, Dwyane Wade knows that he and teammates LeBron James and Chris Bosh set a trend that the rest of the NBA will follow for years.

Barkley: Rose overseas would be a mistake
Charles Barkley said NBA stars like Derrick Rose shouldn't play overseas during the lockout.

Wade: Bulls 1 player from annual contender
Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade said Thursday that while the Chicago Bulls are a great team, they still may be one player from being a championship contender every season.

Players from Chicago aim to end violence (AP)
CHICAGO (STATS) - It's a relatively quiet afternoon on Chicago's South Side as Englewood residents soak in the summer sun. The sounds of car traffic and street conversation are barely noticeable to the conditioned urban ear as the rhythmic thud of a bouncing ball echoes through the crime-saddled city blocks.

Bulls' Boozer to play overseas if NBA is delayed
Add Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer to the list of NBA players looking to play overseas in light of the current NBA lockout.

Bulls' Deng cleared to play for Britain in Euros
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng has been cleared to play for Britain in the European Basketball Championships after resolving a dispute over insurance.

Bulls' Deng cleared to play for Britain in Euros
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng has been cleared to play for Britain in the European Basketball Championships after resolving a dispute over insurance.

Bulls F Deng cleared to play for Britain (AP)
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng has been cleared to play for Britain in the European Basketball Championships after resolving a dispute over insurance. Deng says on his website Wednesday that "significant liability issues" have been overcome to allow him to play in the tournament. The championships run from Aug.

Bulls' Deng cleared to play for Britain
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng has been cleared to play for Britain in the European Basketball Championships after resolving a dispute over insurance.

Lucas has 60, Durant 41 in NY summer game
Kevin Durant watched John Lucas III score 60 points in another summer league game, but his team won.

Lucas has 60, Durant 41 in NY summer game
Kevin Durant watched John Lucas III score 60 points in another summer league game, but his team won.

Bulls C Noah set to join France squad (AP)
Injured Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah should be ready to join his France teammates later this week, the French Basketball Federation said. Noah has been having treatment in Los Angeles on his right ankle. The French team's osteopath and the Bulls' physiotherapist are said to be happy that Noah's injury has responded well to treatment.

Noah recovering, expected to play for France
The French Basketball Federation says Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is recovering well from a troublesome ankle problem and should be ready to join his France teammates later this week.

Noah set to join up with France team
The French Basketball Federation says Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is recovering well from a troublesome ankle problem and should be ready to join his France teammates later this week.

Bulls' Noah set to play for French team
Injured Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah should be ready to join his France teammates later this week, the French Basketball Federation said.

Bulls coach Thibodeau undergoes knee surgery
Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau underwent a right knee replacement on July 13 and is feeling much better than he has in months.

Bulls could work out together if lockout drags on
If the NBA lockout drags out as long as most league observers think it will, Chicago Bulls players have discussed a potential alternative for training camp and beyond: working out together in Los Angeles or Las Vegas.

NBA to open with Bulls-Mavs -- if season opens
The NBA has released its complete 2011-12 schedule despite being in a lockout that could last months and cause it to be scrapped.

Bulls C Noah to play for France in Euros (AP)
A person familiar with Joakim Noah's decision says the Chicago Bulls center plans to play for the French national team in the European Championships in Lithuania. The person spoke Tuesday on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss Noah's plans. Noah was limited by a thumb injury last season, averaging 11.7 points and 10.4 rebounds in 48 games while helping the...

Report: Noah to play for Team France
A person familiar with Joakim Noah's decision says the Chicago Bulls center plans to play for the French national team in the European Championships in Lithuania.

Source: Bulls' Noah to play for France
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is scheduled to leave for France on Monday to begin preparation for a stint with Team France in the European Championships in Lithuania, according to a source close to the situation.

Bulls exercise fourth-year option on F Gibson
The Chicago Bulls exercised the fourth-year team option for the 2012-13 season on forward Taj Gibson on Wednesday.

Bulls excited about potential of Mirotic with Rose
The Bulls are excited about first round draft pick Nikola Mirotic even if he won't play in the NBA for a while.

New Bull Butler joins team, hangs with D-Rose
Jimmy Butler was at the airport in Houston on his way to Chicago when he got a text message from Derrick Rose.

Pippen clarifies remarks: MJ is greatest ever
Scottie Pippen said Friday he believes Michael Jordan is the greatest player in NBA history, despite remarks he made last month regarding Miami Heat forward LeBron James on ESPN Radio's "Mike and Mike In The Morning."

Pacers pick up options on 3 players (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 26: Joakim Noah #13 of the Chicago Bulls puts up a shot against (L-R) Darren Collison #2, Danny Granger #33 and Roy Hibbert #55 of the Indiana Pacers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on April 26, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pacers 116-89. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The Indiana Pacers have picked up the 2012-13 team options on Darren Collison, Tyler Hansbrough and Paul George. All three were starters by the end of last season. The Pacers acquired Collison in a trade last offseason, and he quickly established himself. The second-year point guard started 79 games and averaged 13.2 points and 5.1 assists per game.




Reinsdorf, ex-RB Dunn receive Jefferson award
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, actress Marlo Thomas and sports team owner Jerry M. Reinsdorf are among the people being honored with a national prize for public service.

Bulls GM plans to keep picks, get useful players
Bulls general manager Gar Forman expects the team to keep both first-round picks and to select players who will make the team.

Nets work out Hardy, Hansbrough (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 26: Tyler Hansbrough #50 of the Indiana Pacers looses control of the ball under pressure from Joakim Noah #13 and Taj Gibson #22 of the Chicago Bulls as Jeff Foster #10 moves to the ball in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on April 26, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

During the last Big East college basketball season, there were three players under serious consideration for conference player of the year honors, namely Kemba Walker of Connecticut, Dwight Hardy of St. John's and Ben Hansbrough of Notre Dame. The award eventually went to Hansbrough. On Monday, as the New Jersey Nets hosted their final workout prior to Thursday's NBA draft, two of those...




Cubs affiliate mocks LeBron with 'ring' giveaway
The Peoria Chiefs held their LeBron James "ring" giveaway Thursday.

Minor league baseball team mocks James (AP)
Even the Peoria Chiefs are poking fun at LeBron James. The Chicago Cubs' Class A affiliate in Illinois is holding a LeBron James NBA Championship Replica Ring Giveaway at Thursday night's game. The replica rings, like a Miami Heat championship, don't exist. The Chiefs also said they hoped to skip the fourth inning of Thursday's game against the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers to...

Team pokes fun at LeBron with "ring" promotion
For one night, fans of the Peoria Chiefs can have their own replica of LeBron James' first championship ring. Call it the cheapest promotion in sports history because, like James' ring, the handout doesn't exist.

Kerr: LeBron is no Jordan, more like Pippen
Steve Kerr says Scottie Pippen had it all wrong: LeBron James isn't Michael Jordan; he's Pippen.

Pacers players want Vogel to stay coach (AP)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 23: Head coach Frank Vogel of the Indiana Pacers talks with referee David Jones #36 in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs against the Chicago Bulls at Conseco Fieldhouse on April 23, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Pacers defeated the Bulls 89-84. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Indiana Pacers players want interim coach Frank Vogel to get the full-time gig. Now, it's up to team president Larry Bird to make a decision. It's been more than a month since the team's season ended and the waiting game continues. "I'll be happy if Frank gets picked," said center Roy Hibbert before playing in a charity softball game for the Indiana Children's Wish...




Barkley can't root for Heat, calls fans 'worst'
Charles Barkley lobbied another verbal salvo on Wednesday in his war of words with the Miami Heat and their fans.

Hawks F Williams undergoes back surgery (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - MAY 06:  Marvin Williams #24 of the Atlanta Hawks dunks against Derrick Rose #1, Joakim Noah #13 and Carlos Boozer #5 of the Chicago Bulls in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Phillips Arena on May 6, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Atlanta Hawks forward Marvin Williams has undergone minor surgery on his lower back to alleviate the pain from a bulging disc. The outpatient procedure was performed Wednesday at Peachtree Orthopedic Clinics in Atlanta. The team says Williams walked out of the facility on his own and should be able to resume full basketball activities in six to eight weeks.




James may get shot at guarding Nowitzki (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 26:  LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat celebrates after the Heat won 83-80 against Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 26, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

It's the matchup that basketball fans might really want to see. Not Heat vs. Mavericks. LeBron vs. Dirk. There's a chance at some point in the NBA finals, which begin Tuesday when Dallas visits Miami, that Heat forward LeBron James may find himself guarding Mavs star Dirk Nowitzki. If it happens, James said he will accept the challenge.




Wade's wild year ends with finals return (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 26:  Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat answers questions from the media at the post game press conference after the Heat won 83-80 against the Chicago Bulls in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 26, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

There were civil trials over failed business deals. A nasty divorce. A nastier custody fight. The uncertainty of where he would continue his NBA career. And the rigors of a season unlike any other. That sums up the last 12 months for Dwyane Wade. Which only makes where he's going now even sweeter. Wade and the Miami Heat are heading to the NBA finals for the second time, capping an overwhelming...




Pippen: LeBron could be better than Jordan
Scottie Pippen had a front row seat to watch LeBron James oust the Chicago Bulls from the playoffs, and the Hall of Famer believes James might supplant Pippen's former running mate Michael Jordan as the greatest player ever.

East finals ratings up 46 percent (AP)
The Miami Heat won the series and plenty of television viewers in the Eastern Conference finals. The five-game series between the Heat and Chicago Bulls averaged 10.4 million viewers on TNT. That's up 46 percent from last year's Celtics-Magic matchup in the East, and up 33 percent from Lakers-Suns on TNT in 2010.

Pippen: James may be better than Jordan (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 26:  LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat celebrates after the Heat won 83-80 against Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 26, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

As if the Bulls losing to Miami in the Eastern Conference finals wasn't enough, Hall-of-Famer Scottie Pippen has added to Chicago's pain by suggesting that LeBron James could be better than Michael Jordan. Pippen stirred the pot in an interview with ESPN radio on Friday morning, saying Jordan "is probably the greatest scorer to play the game" but James "may be the greatest...




Rose: Bulls will be hungrier next season (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 26:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls reacts against the Miami Heat in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 26, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose says the Chicago Bulls will come back hungrier next season after the Miami Heat knocked them out of the playoffs. As good as they were this season, the Bulls came up short in the Eastern Conference finals. Miami won the series in five games and will play Dallas for the NBA championship. The Bulls were aiming for more after back-to-back 41-win seasons and first-round playoff exits.




Pippen: Bulls' high-price players must be better
Scottie Pippen said the Chicago Bulls' highest-price players could not be counted on against the Miami Heat.

Heat fans celebrate return to finals (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 26:  Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat looks on against the Chicago Bulls in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 26, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Gabrielle Union thrust both her arms up in celebration. Savannah Brinson hoisted her index finger skyward. On the street below, more than 10,000 Miami Heat fans screamed in delight as well. The Heat are going to the NBA finals -- and the party in Miami started long before the game ended. The team threw a rally for its fans Thursday night, showing Game 5 from Chicago on a giant 3,400-square-foot video...




Crushing defeat will linger with Bulls (AP)
The Chicago Bulls had the best regular-season record in the NBA, an MVP in Derrick Rose and the coach of the year in Tom Thibodeau. Now they'll have a long summer after a crushing defeat that ended their season in the Eastern Conference finals. Chicago blew a 12-point lead in the fourth quarter Thursday night, falling apart when they appeared on their way to victory and losing 83-80.

Down 12 late, Heat rally to reach finals (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 26:  Chris Bosh #1 of the Miami Heat celebrates after the Heat won 83-80 against the Chicago Bulls in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 26, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh joined to win a championship. Well, now they have their shot. James scored 28 points, Wade added 21, and they led a furious rally in the final minutes as the Miami Heat eliminated Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls 83-80 in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals on Thursday.




LeBron, Wade lead improbable comeback
Miami rally finishes off Chicago, sets up title matchup with Dallas.

Heat try to finish off Bulls in Game 5
Chicago tries to stave off elimination.

Scalabrine takes Asik's spot for Bulls in Game 5
Brian Scalabrine will take Omer Asik's place on the Chicago Bulls' roster for Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Miami Heat on Thursday.

Heat not looking beyond game 5 (AP)

MIAMI, FL - MAY 24:  Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat reaxcts against the Chicago Bulls in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 24, 2011 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida. Recording artist Drake NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images)

Dwyane Wade stayed long after practice ended Wednesday, fine-tuning his shot for so long that he had to eventually be summoned off the court so the Miami Heat's plane could leave on time. Up 3-1 in the Eastern Conference finals, the Heat are still working. "We're desperate," Wade said.




Thibodeau: First quarter Bulls' focus vs. Heat
Tom Thibodeau said the Chicago Bulls' comeback against the Miami Heat begins with small steps.

Source: Bulls' Asik (leg) likely done for season
Chicago Bulls center Omer Asik is likely done for the rest of the season because of a muscle strain in his left leg, according to a source familiar with the situation.

Bulls C Asik to miss rest of season
Chicago Bulls backup center Omer Asik will miss the rest of the season because of a broken left fibula.

Hardaway: Noah did well after anti-gay slur
Chicago native and former Miami Heat star Tim Hardaway has plenty of reasons to be intrigued by the Eastern Conference finals, including one negative storyline that resurrected a low point for Hardaway.

Thibodeau on Rose: He won't make them all
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose made just 8 of 27 shots and missed a shot at the end of regulation in Game 4 that would have evened their series against the Miami Heat, but his team hasn't lost faith in him.

Miller travels with Heat; thoughts with daughter
Mike Miller is heading to Chicago with concerns about his new daughter's health.

Bulls C Asik to miss rest of playoffs (AP)

MIAMI, FL - MAY 24:  Chris Bosh #1 of the Miami Heat drives for a shot attempt against Omer Asik #3 of the Chicago Bulls in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 24, 2011 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images)

Chicago Bulls backup center Omer Asik will miss the rest of the season because of a broken left fibula. Asik was injured in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals at Miami. The team says an MRI and CT scan taken before Game 4 on Tuesday confirmed the injury. He tried to play anyway, but lasted just two minutes.




Postgame reaction to Miami Heat win over Chicago Bulls in Game 4


No shootaround: Bulls' Asik (leg) game-time call
Chicago Bulls center Omer Asik missed shootaround Tuesday prior to Game 4 against the Miami Heat because of a muscle strain in his left leg, and he is a game-time decision.

Rose shoots 8 for 27 in Game 4 loss (AP)
When Derrick Rose had a chance to win the game and tie the series, he came up short. In fact, his shot failed to reach the rim. The miss from 17 feet as the fourth quarter ended sent Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals into overtime, and the Miami Heat took advantage of the reprieve Tuesday to beat the Chicago Bulls 101-93.

Heat win in OT, within 1 game of finals (AP)

MIAMI, FL - MAY 24:  Dwyane Wade #3 and LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat celebrate against the Chicago Bulls in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 24, 2011 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida. The Heat won 101-93 in overtime. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Dwyane Wade was ailing, so LeBron James and Chris Bosh more than picked up the slack. Then Wade found his groove at the perfect time, and the Miami Heat, the team put together solely to win championships, moved one emotional victory away from the NBA finals. James scored 35 points, Bosh added 22 and the Heat overcame an early 11-point deficit to beat the Chicago Bulls 101-93 on Tuesday night,...




Wade fuels Heat in OT as Bulls pushed to brink
LeBron James scored 35 points, Chris Bosh added 22 and the Miami Heat moved within one win of the NBA Finals with a wild 101-93 overtime victory over the Chicago Bulls in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference title series on Tuesday night.

Heat surge past Bulls in Game 4 overtime
Miami on verge of NBA Finals after clutch win over Chicago.

Heat go for 3-1 lead on Bulls
With Miami chasing the East title, can Chicago get back in the hunt?

Bulls dealing with untimely distractions (AP)

MIAMI, FL - MAY 22:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls looks on during warm ups against the Miami Heat in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 22, 2011 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Distractions are surrounding the Chicago Bulls right now, at the season's most critical moment. Before Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals, the Bulls dealt with questions about an interview where Derrick Rose reportedly said the NBA has a huge problem with performance-enhancing drugs. And now, the buildup to Game 4 on Tuesday night has been largely about Joakim Noah directing an anti-gay...




Bulls' Rose: I can be way more aggressive
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose believes the Miami Heat have the best defensive squad he has faced all season, and he knows a berth in the NBA Finals depends on the Bulls overcoming that challenge.

Noah meets with NBA over anti-gay slur (AP)

MIAMI, FL - MAY 22:  Joakim Noah #13 of the Chicago Bulls drives for a shot attempt against Mike Bibby #0 of the Miami Heat in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 22, 2011 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images)

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah has met with NBA officials and expects to "pay the price" for using an anti-gay slur during Sunday's third game of the Eastern Conference finals against Miami. Television cameras captured Noah saying an expletive, followed by the slur toward a fan midway through the first quarter.




Bulls' Noah sorry for alleged gay slur toward fan
Bulls center Joakim Noah apologized for allegedly using a gay slur toward a fan during Chicago's 96-85 loss to the Miami Heat in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals.

Bulls can't even stop Heat role players
Forget D-Wade and LeBron. Chicago can't even stop the other guys.

Noah, league officials discuss slur
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah has met with NBA officials and expects to ''pay the price'' for using an anti-gay slur during Sunday's third game of the Eastern Conference finals against Miami.

Bulls' Asik day to day with muscle injury in leg
Bulls center Omer Asik is day to day with a leg injury.

Bulls' Noah, NBA officials discuss anti-gay slur
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah has met with NBA officials and expects to "pay the price" for using an anti-gay slur during Sunday's third game of the Eastern Conference finals against Miami.

Bulls sputter offensively in Game 3 loss (AP)

MIAMI, FL - MAY 22:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls looks on during warm ups against the Miami Heat in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 22, 2011 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Nearly an hour before Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals, Derrick Rose found himself on the defensive. Facing a small knot of reporters at his locker, the NBA MVP denied telling ESPN the Magazine the league has a steroid problem. A distraction? Maybe. But Rose and his Chicago Bulls teammates were backpedaling for much of the night Sunday, and they lost to the Miami Heat 96-85 to fall behind in...




Bosh powers Heat to 2-1 series lead over Bulls
Chris Bosh scored 34 points, LeBron James added 22 and the Miami Heat took a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference finals by beating the Chicago Bulls 96-85 on Sunday night.

Bosh has 34 as Heat down Bulls in Game 3 (AP)

MIAMI, FL - MAY 22:  Joakim Noah #13 of the Chicago Bulls drives for a shot attempt against Mike Bibby #0 of the Miami Heat in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 22, 2011 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images)

For the second time in three games, Chris Bosh had a monster night against the Chicago Bulls. Unlike the first, this one paid off with a win. And the Miami Heat are two victories from their first trip to the NBA finals since 2006. Bosh scored 34 points, LeBron James finished with 22 points and 10 assists, and the Heat remained unbeaten at home in the postseason by beating the Bulls 96-85 in Game 3...




Report: Noah appears to yell gay slur
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah could find himself in trouble with the NBA after he appeared to yell a gay slur at a fan during Sunday night's Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals in Miami, the Florida Sun-Sentinel reported.

Report: Noah apologizes for gay slur
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah could find himself in trouble with the NBA after he appeared to yell a gay slur at a fan during Sunday night's Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals in Miami, the Florida Sun-Sentinel reported.

Ilgauskas replaces Magloire for Heat (AP)
The Miami Heat are listing Zydrunas Ilgauskas on their active roster for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals. Ilgauskas was inactive for Games 1 and 2 of the series in Chicago. He is taking the spot of Jamaal Magloire, who played a combined 14:38 in the opening two games, scoring a total of four points.

Bulls' Noah addresses dispute with fan
Chicago center Joakim Noah is acknowledging saying ''something'' toward a fan during the first quarter of the Bulls' Eastern Conference finals game in Miami on Sunday night.

Rose questions steroid quote in magazine (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 18:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls looks on from the bench against the Chicago Bulls in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 18, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The Heat won 85-75. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Chicago guard and reigning NBA MVP Derrick Rose says he does not recall telling ESPN the Magazine that the league has a steroid problem. The magazine's May 16 issue has a quote it attributes to Rose, in which he was quoted as saying the NBA has a "huge" problem and needs "a level playing field." Before Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals Sunday night against Miami, Rose...




Bulls' Rose denies saying PEDs 'huge' problem
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose on Sunday denied an ESPN The Magazine report quoting him as saying that performance enhancing drugs are a "huge" problem in the NBA.

Bulls' Rose denies making steroid remark
Chicago guard and reigning NBA MVP Derrick Rose says he does not recall telling ESPN the Magazine that the league has a steroid problem.

Rose says Game 3 is must-win for Bulls (AP)
They were bloodied, bruised and battered. Just about everyone had icepacks strapped to various regions of their bodies, and many all but limped toward the bus out of the arena. That was the Miami scene after Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals. Imagine what the losing team must have felt like. The East finals resume with Game 3 in Miami on Sunday night, when the Heat host the Chicago Bulls with a...

Bulls' PF Gibson embraces role (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 18:  Taj Gibson #22 of the Chicago Bulls attempts a shot against Udonis Haslem #40 and Mike Miller #13 of the Miami Heat in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 18, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The Chicago Bulls didn't need to see Taj Gibson dunk on Dwyane Wade in the opener of the Eastern Conference finals or try to carry them late in Game 2. They already understood his value. He's just showing it on a bigger stage these days. The Bulls are in the conference finals for the first time in 13 years, tied 1-1 with the Heat as the series shifts to Miami for Game 3, and challenging for...




Thibodeau: Bulls have to make the 'tough plays'
The Bulls look to rebound from a disappointing Game 2 loss to the Heat.

Defense does not rest in East finals
Miami, Chicago get defensive in stingy series.

Bulls' Rose plans to 'keep driving' in Game 3
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose and coach Tom Thibodeau have spent plenty of time over the past few days breaking down tape, trying to find driving lanes in the Miami Heat defense.

Heat look to ride home edge to NBA title (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 18:  LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat dunks against the Chicago Bulls in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 18, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Good news for the Miami Heat: They're the only team still unbeaten at home in this year's playoffs. Better news for the Heat: To win the NBA championship, they only need to stay that way. And here's perhaps some sobering news for the Heat: Every other team left in this postseason is 1-0 on Miami's home floor this year.




Bulls look to make adjustments vs. Heat (AP)
By the numbers, the Chicago Bulls easily could have been blown out by the Miami Heat in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals. They weren't, though. Even though MVP Derrick Rose struggled, even though they got outshot and outrebounded, and even though LeBron James and Dwyane Wade played more like superstars, the Bulls were in it until the end.

Rodman to present game ball before Bulls-Heat
Dennis Rodman will return to the United Center on Wednesday when he presents the game ball before Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals between the Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat.

LeBron, Heat win Game 2 to even Eastern finals
LeBron James came up big down the stretch and scored 29 points, Dwyane Wade added 24 and the Miami Heat beat the Chicago Bulls 85-75 Wednesday night to tie the Eastern Conference finals at one game apiece.

Bulls go cold in 4th, fail to stop James (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 18:  LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat reacts against the Chicago Bulls in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 18, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Missed shots and wasted opportunities. The Chicago Bulls couldn't connect in the fourth quarter and they couldn't stop a late surge by LeBron James, either. That's why the Eastern Conference finals are tied at 1-1 headed back to Miami with the Heat in control of homecourt advantage. The Bulls, down by 11 in the third quarter, tied the game on a basket by Taj Gibson with a little more...




James clutch late as Heat even series (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 18: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls drives for a shot attempt against the Miami Heat in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 18, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The Heat won 85-75. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

LeBron James came up big down the stretch and scored 29 points, Dwyane Wade added 24 and the Miami Heat beat the Chicago Bulls 85-75 Wednesday night to tie the Eastern Conference finals at one game apiece. The Heat can breathe a little easier after escaping with a win and stealing home-court advantage.




Rodman back in Chicago for Bulls-Heat
Dennis Rodman still sported numerous piercings and tattoos as he walked into the United Center. That much hadn't changed since he helped the Chicago Bulls win their final three championships in the late 1990s.

Heat surge past Bulls to even series
Miami gets even in East finals with win in Chicago.

Jordan surprises Oprah at farewell show (AP)
Michael Jordan surprised Oprah Winfrey at her farewell show at Chicago's United Center, where his statue sits outside. Jordan was one of many celebrities who attended Tuesday night's "Surprise Oprah! A Farewell Spectacular." Actor Will Smith introduced Jordan, describing the United Center as the "house that Michael Jordan built." Jordan came on stage and hugged Winfrey...

Jordan appears at Oprah Winfrey farewell
Michael Jordan surprised Oprah Winfrey at her farewell show at Chicago's United Center, where his statue sits outside.

Bulls' Rose: Family to attend Oprah taping at UC
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose said his family is headed to the United Center on Tuesday night to see the taping of one of Oprah's final shows.

Thibodeau: Bulls' plan won't change in Game 2
As the Miami Heat ponder changes heading into Game 2 on Wednesday, the Chicago Bulls will stick to the script they used to grab a 1-0 lead in the Eastern Conference finals.

Barkley likes Heat, but 'they're a whiny bunch'
Charles Barkley is not afraid to speak his mind, which is a quality that makes him one of the most popular NBA announcers on television -- except with some players, from time to time.

Deng-James matchup key in East finals (AP)
The Chicago Bulls saw it all year from Luol Deng, so what he did against LeBron James and the Miami Heat in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals hardly shocked them. Hit big shots? Hit the boards? Limit the game's most talented player? Check, check and huge check. The Bulls lead the Heat 1-0 after a 103-82 victory on Sunday, and a big reason for that is Deng.

Bulls control Heat, lead 1-0 after dominant 4th
Derrick Rose scored 28 points, Luol Deng contained LeBron James and the Chicago Bulls struck first in the Eastern Conference finals, pulling away to beat the Miami Heat 103-82 in Game 1 on Sunday night.

Bulls beat Heat, stifle James in Game 1 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 15:  Kyle Korver #26 of the Chicago Bulls dives for a loose ball against Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat in Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs on May 15, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 28 points, Luol Deng contained LeBron James and the Chicago Bulls struck first in the Eastern Conference finals, pulling away to beat the Miami Heat 103-82 in Game 1 on Sunday night. The Bulls are off to a good start in this series after sweeping the Heat during the regular season.




Bulls run past Heat to take 1-0 lead
Chicago shows it still has Miami's number with Game 1 win.

Heat players to take turns guarding Rose (AP)
LeBron James will take some turns guarding Derrick Rose in the Eastern Conference finals. So will Dwyane Wade. Mike Bibby, Mario Chalmers and even Chris Bosh in some moments, too. None of them expects to stop him. Keeping Rose in check, however, is the top priority for the Miami Heat -- and is likely a prerequisite for beating the Chicago Bulls and reaching the NBA finals.

Bulls' support helped Boozer break out of slump
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer appreciates his teammates' support that came during his recent slump.

Bulls, Heat collide in East finals (AP)
On the night of the big "Decision" last summer, Luol Deng was at the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya with no TV and no one was asking if LeBron James would sign with the Chicago Bulls. Deng wasn't paying attention to the soap opera. It's safe to say he will be following James a little more closely starting Sunday, when the Chicago Bulls meet the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference...

Breakdown: Miami Heat vs. Chicago Bulls
Breakdown: Heat vs. Bulls

LeBron: Don't look for high scoring in East finals
LeBron James had a bit of advice Saturday for fans who are expected an exciting, high-scoring, offensively efficient playoff series between his Miami Heat and the Chicago Bulls: watch the Western Conference finals instead.

Heat present Bulls toughest test yet (AP)
Derrick Rose saw the talent, saw the attitude and saw no reason why this couldn't be a special season for the Chicago Bulls. Well, 62 wins and two playoff series victories later, it's still going strong. The Bulls knocked off Atlanta on Thursday and now comes their toughest test: LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference finals.

Drew: Hawks close to taking next step (AP)
The Atlanta Hawks ended this season the same way they have the last two: losing in the second round of the playoffs. But coach Larry Drew and his players are encouraged about taking top-seeded Chicago to six games. The Hawks were certainly much more competitive against the Bulls than they were in sweeps by Cleveland in 2009 and Orlando a year ago.

Wade to stay in hotel, not Chicago home (AP)
There will be no comforts of home for Dwyane Wade on this trip to Chicago. All business. After all, an NBA finals berth is at stake. The Chicago native is going home and treating it like a road trip, which is precisely what it is from the Miami Heat perspective anyway. Some of Wade's toughest nights in the NBA have come in Chicago, and so may his toughest challenge yet this season, when the Heat...

Wanna bet? Las Vegas likes Heat to reach Finals
The Miami Heat is a strong favorite, almost 2-to-1, to beat the Chicago Bulls in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference finals.

Bulls' Rose: Game 6 is the biggest of our lives
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose said Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals is "the biggest game of our life right here."

Heat are no match for Bulls
The Heat look (and act) like champs now, but Chicago will expose them.

Rose, James set to meet in East finals (AP)
Dwyane Wade is going home this weekend. Derrick Rose will be waiting for him. Get ready for a star-studded Eastern Conference finals. It will be No. 1 Chicago against No. 2 Miami for a spot in the NBA finals, their best-of-seven to decide the East crown set to start Sunday night. Chicago clinched its spot Thursday by beating the Atlanta Hawks 93-73, winning that series in six games.

Boozer, Rose lead Bulls' rout to eliminate Hawks
Carlos Boozer scored 23 points and MVP Derrick Rose had 12 assists, leading the Chicago Bulls to a 93-73 rout of the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday night that finished off in the Eastern Conference semifinal in six games.

Bulls advance to East finals vs. Heat (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - MAY 12:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls waits for the ball to be inbounded against the Atlanta Hawks in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Phillips Arena on May 12, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose simply had to run the show. The MVP had plenty of help in this one, and the Chicago Bulls are off to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since M.J. was at the controls. Carlos Boozer scored 23 points and Rose doled out 12 assists, pushing Chicago out to a big lead in the first half that carried the Bulls past Atlanta 93-73 in the Eastern Conference semifinals Thursday...




Boozer steps up in Bulls' Game 6 win
Chicago polishes off Hawks, sets up date with Miami.

Chicago TV sportscaster found dead in Atlanta
A 38-year-old TV sports anchor from Chicago was found dead Thursday morning in his Atlanta hotel room, where he was staying while covering the Chicago Bulls-Atlanta Hawks NBA playoff series.

Riley, Bulls' Forman both win top exec (AP)
Miami Heat president Pat Riley and Chicago Bulls general manager Gar Forman are co-recipients of the NBA Executive of the Year award for engineering overhauls that so far have propelled their teams to the Eastern Conference semifinals. The league announced the award Tuesday. Riley and Forman each received 11 of a possible 30 votes from a panel of team executives.

Bulls take care of Hawks in 4th to seize 3-2 lead
Derrick Rose scored 33 points, Luol Deng added 23 and the Chicago Bulls beat the Atlanta Hawks 95-83 in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Tuesday night to take a 3-2 lead.

Rose has 33 as Bulls go up 3-2 on Hawks (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 10: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls puts up a shot on his way to a game-high 33 points against the Atlanta Hawks in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on May 10, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Hawks 95-83. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 33 points, Luol Deng added 23 and the Chicago Bulls beat the Atlanta Hawks 95-83 in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Tuesday night to take a 3-2 lead. Taj Gibson had 11 points -- all in the fourth quarter. Rose also scored 11 in the fourth, and the Bulls pounded the Hawks 26-15 in the quarter.




Riley, Forman share top NBA exec honor
Miami Heat president Pat Riley and Chicago Bulls general manager Gar Forman are co-recipients of the NBA Executive of the Year award for engineering overhauls that so far have propelled their teams to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Bulls beat Hawks to take 3-2 series lead
Derrick Rose scored 33 points, Luol Deng added 23 and the Chicago Bulls beat the Atlanta Hawks 95-83 in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Tuesday night to take a 3-2 lead.

Pacers keeping Bird as president (AP)

Indiana Pacers ' T.J. Ford covers his face as he leaves the court after the Pacers lost to the Chicago Bulls in Game 5 of a first-round NBA playoffs basketball series on Tuesday, April 26, 2011, in Chicago. The Bulls won 116-89 and took the series four games to one.

Larry Bird will get to see his rebuilding project through, after all. The Indiana Pacers announced Tuesday that they will keep Bird as team president after he met with owner Herb Simon in Los Angeles. The Pacers made their first playoff appearance since 2006 this season in the final year of Bird's contract, and the future looks bright.




Scott leaving Notre Dame, remains in NBA draft
Notre Dame forward Carleton Scott will forgo his final year of eligibility and remain in the NBA draft.

Ref admits mistake in no-call on Bulls' Rose
NBA official Bennett Salvatore admitted he made a mistake in ruling an inadvertent whistle rather than a foul on a three-point shot attempt by the Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose late in Sunday night's Game 4 against Atlanta Hawks.

Hawks G Hinrich says hamstring improving (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 02: Injured player Kirk Hinrich of the Atlanta Hawks cheers on his team from the bench against the Chicago Bulls in Game One of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on May 2, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Hawks defeated the Bulls 103-95. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Atlanta Hawks guard Kirk Hinrich says his ailing right hamstring is finally starting to show some improvement. Hinrich was hurt in the closing minutes of a series-clinching win over Orlando. Second-year player Jeff Teague has filled in admirably, averaging 16 points a game against the Bulls with only five turnovers.




Bulls' Rose on his 32 shots: Not a good number
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose went just 12-for-32 from the field during the Atlanta Hawks' 100-88 victory in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Sunday night, and even he admitted that he took more shots than he would have liked.

Ref admits blown call late in Hawks' win (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - MAY 08:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls waits to walk back in the game against the Atlanta Hawks in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Phillips Arena on May 8, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

NBA referee Bennett Salvatore acknowledged Sunday that he blew a call in the closing minutes of Atlanta's 100-88 victory over the Chicago Bulls, which evened the Eastern Conference semifinal at two games apiece. With 2 1/2 minutes remaining and the Hawks leading 90-84, Bulls star Derrick Rose went up for a shot beyond the 3-point stripe and appeared to be fouled by Jamal Crawford.




Ref admits he blew call in Hawks' win
NBA referee Bennett Salvatore acknowledged Sunday that he blew a call in the closing minutes of Atlanta's 100-88 victory over the Chicago Bulls, which evened the Eastern Conference semifinal at two games apiece.

Scott leaving Notre Dame, remains in NBA draft
Notre Dame forward Carleton Scott will forego his final year of eligibility and remain in the NBA draft.

Hawks knot Bulls series at 2 as Smith leads way
Josh Smith had 23 points, 16 rebounds and eight assists, and Jeff Teague came up with another big game to lead the Atlanta Hawks past the Chicago Bulls 100-88 Sunday night, evening the Eastern Conference semifinals at two games apiece.

Smith, Teague shine as Hawks even series (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - MAY 08:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls waits for play against the Atlanta Hawks in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Phillips Arena on May 8, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Josh Smith had 23 points, 16 rebounds and eight assists, and Jeff Teague came up with another big game to lead the Atlanta Hawks past the Chicago Bulls 100-88 Sunday night, evening the Eastern Conference semifinals at two games apiece. The Hawks snapped a nine-game home losing streak in the second round of the playoffs, their misery dating to a May 13, 1996, win against Orlando.




Hawks shuffle lineup for Game 4 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 02: Jason Collins #34 of the Atlanta Hawks battles for a rebound with Omer Asik #3 of the Chicago Bulls in Game One of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on May 2, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The Atlanta Hawks have changed up their lineup for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Chicago Bulls. Coming off a blowout loss, coach Larry Drew returned Sunday to the lineup that worked so well in a first-round win over Orlando. Jason Collins will start at center, Al Horford moves to power forward and Josh Smith shifts to small forward.




Bulls' Boozer: Best games are ahead of me
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer said Friday he wants to play through the pain of his turf toe injury, despite his struggles in the Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Atlanta Hawks.

Rose's career-high 44 get Bulls 2-1 lead (AP)

ATLANTA, GA - MAY 06:  Tom Thibodeau converses with Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls during Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs against the Atlanta Hawks at Phillips Arena on May 6, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Finally, the real Chicago Bulls showed up in the playoffs. Naturally, Derrick Rose led the way. Looking every bit like an MVP, Rose sliced up Atlanta for a career-high 44 points as the Bulls seized control of the Eastern Conference semifinals with their best performance of the postseason, romping to a 99-82 victory over the Hawks in Game 3 Friday night.




Rose torches Hawks for 44, Bulls take 2-1 lead
Derrick Rose looked every bit like an MVP, slicing up Atlanta for a career-high 44 points as the Chicago Bulls seized control of the Eastern Conference semifinals, romping to a 99-82 victory over the Hawks in Game 3 Friday.

Crawford: If that was Bulls' best, Hawks are OK
Atlanta Hawks guard Jamal Crawford said if the Chicago Bulls gave their best shot in Game 2, the Hawks should be in good shape.

Bulls' Thibodeau stands behind slumping Boozer
Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau continues to defend Carlos Boozer despite the power forward's poor production throughout the playoffs.

Ex-Bulls' Grant on Boozer: Produce or sit down
Former Chicago Bulls forward Horace Grant has not been pleased with what he has seen from Carlos Boozer.

Hawks confident after split in Chicago (AP)

Atlanta Hawks players react as they watch their teammates play against the Chicago Bulls during the fourth quarter in Game 2 of a second-round NBA playoffs basketball series in Chicago, Wednesday, May 4, 2011. The Bulls won 86-73.

The Atlanta Hawks took heart from the way they played in the first two games at Chicago. And they're taking note of what's happening in the rest of the NBA playoffs. Undoubtedly, this postseason looks more wide open than it's been in years. Top-seeded San Antonio was knocked off in the first round, the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers are in serious trouble, and teams such as...




Warriors' Curry wins sportsmanship award (AP)

OAKLAND, CA - MARCH 25:  Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors congratulates his teammates during their game against the Toronto Raptors at Oracle Arena on March 25, 2011 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors has won the Joe Dumars Trophy presented to the NBA player who best exemplifies sportsmanship. Curry received 88 of a possible 347 first-place votes from fellow players. Luol Deng of the Chicago Bulls was second with 84 votes and Portland's LaMarcus Aldridge was third with 56.




Bulls' Rose, Boozer expected to play vs. Hawks
Derrick Rose and Carlos Boozer participated fully in practice and are expected to be in the lineup for the Chicago Bulls in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday.

Rose, Boozer expected to play in Game 2
Derrick Rose and Carlos Boozer went through the morning shootaround and are expected to be in the Chicago Bulls' lineup for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Atlanta Hawks.

Bulls beat Hawks in Game 2 to tie series (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 04: Joakim Noah #13 of the Chicago Bulls rests at center court after a called time-out against the Atlanta Hawks in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on May 4, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Hawks 86-73. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Newly crowned MVP Derrick Rose scored 25 points, Joakim Noah added 19 points and 14 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls beat the Atlanta Hawks 86-73 in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Wednesday night to tie the series. The top-seeded Bulls shook off a dismal performance in the opener and looked more like the team with a league-leading 62 wins, building a 14-point lead and ending the...




Bulls rebound, handle Hawks to knot series at 1
Newly crowned MVP Derrick Rose scored 25 points, Joakim Noah added 19 points and 14 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls beat the Atlanta Hawks 86-73 in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Wednesday night to tie the series.

Commish calls MVP Rose 'whole package'
NBA commissioner David Stern presented Derrick Rose with the MVP award.

Rose, Noah fuel Bulls to bounce-back win
Chicago beats Atlanta to even East semifinal series.

2011 NBA Playoffs: X-rays negative on sprained ankle of Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose
X-rays were negative on the sprained ankle of Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose.

Bulls' Rose, 22, youngest MVP in NBA history
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose won the NBA's MVP award

Rose crowned youngest MVP
The NBA has made it official: Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose is the MVP.

Bulls' Rose should play in Game 2
Derrick Rose should be fine. Time will tell if the Chicago Bulls will be, too.

Boozer will try to play against Hawks
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer says he will try to play in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Monday against the Atlanta Hawks after being limited by turf toe on his right foot.

NBA mandates metal detectors for playoffs
In the aftermath of the death of Osama bin Laden, the Chicago Bulls will use metal detectors to screen all patrons entering the United Center before Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinal against the Atlanta Hawks on Monday.

Bulls' Rose becomes youngest NBA MVP (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Derrick Rose shoots over Atlanta Hawks ' Jeff Teague during the first quarter in Game 1 of a second-round NBA basketball playoff series in Chicago, Monday, May 2, 2011.

Chiacgo Bulls star Derrick Rose is the NBA's MVP, becoming the youngest player in league history to win the award, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press. The person spoke Monday night on the condition of anonymity because a formal announcement has not been made. That could come Tuesday, with a formal presentation before Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.




NBA Playoffs: Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer practiced and expects to play vs. Atlanta Hawks
The Bulls' Carlos Boozer practiced on Monday and expects to play in Game 1 against the Atlanta Hawks.

Hawks beat top-seeded Bulls in Game 1 (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Carlos Boozer , left, looks to a pass as Atlanta Hawks ' Jeff Teague defends during the third quarter in Game 1 of a second-round NBA basketball playoff series in Chicago, Monday, May 2, 2011. The Hawks won 103-95.

Joe Johnson scored 34 points and the Atlanta Hawks beat Derrick Rose and the top-seeded Chicago Bulls 103-95 on Monday night in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. As if the loss itself wasn't bad enough, the Bulls got a major scare when Rose came up limping at the end of the game. Their MVP candidate stepped on Jamal Crawford's foot as he dribbled out the final seconds and was...




Johnson's 34 carry Hawks past Bulls in Game 1
Joe Johnson scored 34 points and the Atlanta Hawks beat Derrick Rose and the top-seeded Chicago Bulls 103-95 on Monday night in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Hawks leave Magic's Nelson tix to Game 1 (AP)
Jameer Nelson could have seen Derrick Rose in the second round, after all. With Atlanta facing Chicago in the Eastern Conference semifinals, Hawks spokesman Arthur Triche decided to have some fun at the Orlando point guard's expense and left him two tickets for Game 1 on Monday night. Triche says he "took a page" from former Falcons coach Jerry Glanville, who used to leave tickets for...

2011 NBA Playoffs: Source: Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose is the NBA's MVP
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose won the NBA's MVP award, according to a source. He is the youngest Most Valuable Player award-winner in the history of the league.

Bulls' Boozer, Hawks' Teague in lineups (AP)
Bulls forward Carlos Boozer and Hawks guard Jeff Teague were in the starting lineups for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals between Chicago and Atlanta on Monday. Boozer had said after the morning shootaround that he was feeling "a lot better" after being limited by turf toe on his right foot and planned to suit up barring any setbacks during pregame warmups.

Bulls take extra security measures
Fans attending Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals between the Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks on Monday night faced somewhat heightened security in light of the killing of Osama bin Laden.

Chicago tenor to sing before Bulls game
One day after the death of al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, the Chicago Bulls confirmed via Twitter that tenor Jim Cornelison, the full-time 'Star Spangled Banner' singer for the Blackhawks, will perform at the United Center before Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

Sources: Chicago Bulls' Tom Thibodeau wins NBA Coach of the Year Award
Tom Thibodeau will be presented with the NBA Coach of the Year award Sunday afternoon, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation.

Thibodeau named NBA coach of the year
Tom Thibodeau is the NBA's Coach of the Year after leading the Chicago Bulls to 62 wins in his first season to tie a league record set by Paul Westphal.

Rose misses practice, Boozer limited (AP)

CHICAGO, IL- APRIL 26:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls speaks to the media after eliminating the Indiana Pacers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs on April 26, 2011 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images)

Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose missed practice Sunday to tend to a family matter, while Carlos Boozer participated on a limited basis. Rose's absence was excused. Boozer is recovering from turf toe on his right foot that surfaced during Game 5 of the Bulls' opening-round playoff series against Indiana.




NBA Playoffs: Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer practiced; Derrick Rose had excused absence
The Bulls' Carlos Boozer practiced while Derrick Rose had an excused absence.

2011 NBA Playoffs: Atlanta Hawks mull lineup changes for second round vs. Chicago Bulls
Injuries and matchup concerns have the Hawks considering multiple changes to their starting lineup for Monday's playoff series opener against the Bulls.

Hinrich may not play in series opener
Atlanta Hawks starting point guard Kirk Hinrich was rated doubtful Saturday to face the Bulls when the second-round playoff series tips off in Chicago on Monday.

Hawks' Hinrich doubtful for Bulls series (AP)
The Atlanta Hawks haven't won a second-round playoff game in 14 years. Their odds of ending that dismal streak became a lot more daunting when Kirk Hinrich collapsed on the court, holding his right leg. Hinrich brings the sort of leadership and lockdown defense the Hawks needed against MVP favorite Derrick Rose and the top-seeded Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose says he hasn't been told he's MVP
A heavy MVP favorite, Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose insists the NBA has not informed him he is the winner.

Rose: NBA didn't tell me I'm MVP (AP)
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose insists the NBA has not informed him he has won the MVP, regardless of what teammate C.J. Watson has said on Twitter. He said "no, not yet" Saturday when asked if he had been told he won the award. Rose's comment came a day Watson caused a stir by posting a congratulatory post on Twitter.

Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer (turf toe) misses second practice
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer sat out his second straight practice because of turf toe on his right foot.

2011 NBA playoffs: Atlanta Hawks point guard Kirk Hinrich is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Friday
Atlanta Hawks point guard Kirk Hinrich was scheduled to undergo an MRI on Friday after straining his hamstring in the series-clinching victory over the Orlando Magic on Thursday.

Boozer misses practice with toe injury
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer sat out Friday's practice because of turf toe on his right foot.

Hawks getting ready for top-seeded Bulls (AP)
For a team that comes across as emotionally fragile, the Atlanta Hawks sure showed plenty of toughness in the opening round of the playoffs. They'll have to dig even deeper this time around. After knocking off Orlando 4-2 -- winning all three homes games by a total of 10 points -- the Hawks are getting ready to face the top-seeded Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Boozer sits out practice with turf toe (AP)
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer sat out Friday's practice because of turf toe on his right foot. Coach Tom Thibodeau says "it's hard to say" if Boozer will be ready for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against Atlanta on Monday but "I'm thinking that he will be able to." Losing Boozer would be a big blow to the Bulls, even though he did have...

2011 NBA Playoffs: Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer undergoes MRI
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer underwent an MRI on his right big toe, and the results were consistent with turf toe.

Vogel wants to be Pacers full-time coach (AP)
Indiana's Frank Vogel did his job as interim coach. Now, the Pacers have to decide if they want him back. Vogel took over for Jim O'Brien at midseason. He went 20-18 and led the team to its first playoff appearance since 2006. His team was competitive in its first-round playoff loss to the Chicago Bulls.

2011 NBA Playoffs: Indiana Pacers forward Danny Granger said Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah was cowardly
Indiana Pacers forward Danny Granger said Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah played "cowardly" at times Tuesday, accusing Noah of cheap-shotting his teammates.

Report: Boozer suffers turf toe injury
Bulls forward Carlos Boozer suffered a turf toe injury during the team's series-clinching win over the Indiana Pacers, the Chicago Tribune reported Wednesday.

Rose's 25 help Bulls finish off Pacers (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 26: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls claps while celebrating a play against the Indiana Pacers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on April 26, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pacers 116-89. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose and the rest of the Chicago Bulls are breathing a little easier after clearing one hurdle. Now they're staring at another big obstacle. That would be Atlanta or Orlando in the Eastern Conference semifinals that will get under way in earnest next week. The Bulls disposed of Indiana in a tough first-round series Tuesday night.




2011 NBA Playoffs: Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau expects Derrick Rose to play Tuesday
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose didn't participate in the morning shootaround Tuesday, but coach Tom Thibodeau still expects Rose to play in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals.

2011 NBA playoffs: Struggling Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer injured vs. Indiana Pacers
Chicago Bulls power forward Carlos Boozer suffered a turf toe injury to his right big toe during the second quarter of a 116-89 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 on Tuesday.

Rose helps Bulls move on, eliminate Pacers in 5
Derrick Rose scored 25 points, Luol Deng added 24 and the Chicago Bulls finally played like a top seed, knocking off the Indiana Pacers 116-89 in Game 5 to wrap up their first-round playoff series Tuesday night.

Rose's 25 help Bulls finish off Pacers (AP)

Indiana Pacers ' T.J. Ford covers his face as he leaves the court after the Pacers lost to the Chicago Bulls in Game 5 of a first-round NBA playoffs basketball series on Tuesday, April 26, 2011, in Chicago. The Bulls won 116-89 and took the series four games to one.

Derrick Rose scored 25 points, Luol Deng added 24 and the Chicago Bulls finally played like a top seed, knocking off the Indiana Pacers 116-89 in Game 5 to wrap up their first-round playoff series Tuesday night. The top-seeded Bulls can breathe a little easier after getting a dominant performance by their MVP candidate and an emphatic win that came on the heels of four dramatic games.




Bulls eliminate Pacers in Game 5 rout
Derrick Rose scored 25 points, Luol Deng added 24 and the Chicago Bulls finally played like a top seed, knocking off the Indiana Pacers 116-89 in Game 5 to wrap up their first-round playoff series Tuesday night.

2011 NBA Playoffs: Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel believes Game 5 will be decisive
Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel believes his team isn't the only one facing elimination Tuesday, because Vogel said he believes if the Pacers win Game 5, they're going to eventually eliminate the Chicago Bulls.

2011 NBA Playoffs: The Chicago Bulls listed Derrick Rose as questionable for Game 5
The Chicago Bulls have listed Derrick Rose as questionable for Game 5 on Tuesday against the Indiana Pacers.

MRI negative on Rose's sprained ankle
Good news for Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose: An MRI has come back negative on his sprained left ankle.

Rose in walking boot but should play (AP)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 23: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls picks himself up off of the floor after being knocked down against the Indiana Pacers in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Conseco Fieldhouse on April 23, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Pacers defeated the Bulls 89-84. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose was in a walking boot and headed for an MRI exam on his sprained left ankle on Sunday. The rest of the Bulls were hurting, too. Their first-round series is shifting back to Chicago after Indiana withstood a late rally to win Game 4 and avoid the sweep. Game 5 is Tuesday night, and maybe then, the Bulls will start to resemble a No.




Bulls G Rose to have MRI on ankle (AP)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 23: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls watches from the bench after injuring his ankle against the Indiana Pacers in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Conseco Fieldhouse on April 23, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Pacers defeated the Bulls 89-84. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose had a walking boot on his left foot Sunday and was scheduled for an MRI on his sprained ankle later in the day. Coach Tom Thibodeau says trainer Fred Tedeschi told him the All-Star point guard is sore but the swelling is "not bad." Rose sprained his left ankle late in the first quarter Saturday as the Bulls dropped Game 4 of their first-round playoff...




Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose arrived at Sunday's practice in a walking boot.
Bulls guard Derrick Rose arrived at Sunday's practice in a walking boot.

Pacers hold off Bulls, avoid elimination (AP)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 23: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls defends against Danny Granger #33 of the Indiana Pacers in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Conseco Fieldhouse on April 23, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Pacers defeated the Bulls 89-84. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Chicago's fans traveled to Indiana by the thousands, planning to celebrate a first-round playoff victory at Conseco Fieldhouse. The Pacers sent them home disappointed, holding off a furious rally to beat the Bulls 89-84 on Saturday afternoon for their first playoff win since 2006. Chicago's Carlos Boozer missed a 3-point attempt that could have tied the game with a second remaining.




Scottie Pippen would like to see Chicago Bulls give some hard fouls to Indiana Pacers
Scottie Pippen would like to see the Bulls give some hard fouls to the Pacers.

2011 NBA Playoffs: NBA reviewing hits by Indiana Pacers center Jeff Foster
The NBA is reviewing two hits Indiana Pacers center Jeff Foster leveled against the Chicago Bulls during Game 3 of their Eastern Conference quarterfinals series on Thursday.

2011 NBA playoffs: Joakim Noah says Chicago Bulls can play much better despite lead
Joakim Noah thinks the Bulls can play much better, despite a 2-0 lead in their series with the Pacers.

2011 NBA Playoffs: Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel said guard Darren Collison is game-time decision for Game 3
Indiana Pacers point guard Darren Collison, who sprained his left ankle in Monday's game against the Chicago Bulls, is a game-time decision for Game 3 on Thursday.

Rose's layup helps Bulls drop Pacers, go up 3-0
Derrick Rose scored 23 points, including the go-ahead layup with 17.8 seconds left, to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Indiana Pacers 88-84 on Thursday night and take a 3-0 lead in their first-round series.

Rose's late layup gives Bulls 3-0 lead (AP)

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 21:  Roy Hibbert #55 of the Indiana Pacers walks off of the court following the 88-84 loss to the Chicago Bulls in Game three of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs on April 21, 2011  at Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose struggled all game long, but still found a way to be the difference-maker in the end. Rose scored 23 points, including the go-ahead layup with 17.8 seconds left, to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Indiana Pacers 88-84 on Thursday night and take a 3-0 lead in their first-round series. Rose's late basket was his only field goal in the second half.




Rose has go-ahead layup in final seconds
Derrick Rose scored 23 points, including the go-ahead layup with 17.8 seconds left, to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Indiana Pacers 88-84 on Thursday night and take a 3-0 lead in their first-round series.

2011 NBA Playoffs: Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel said guard Darren Collison is doubtful for Game 3
Indiana Pacers point guard Darren Collison, who sprained his left ankle in the second quarter of Monday's game against the Chicago Bulls, remains optimistic he can play on Thursday in Game 3.

Pacers PG Collison doubtful for Game 3 (AP)
The Indiana Pacers are close to having a 2-0 lead against the Chicago Bulls. And now they could be short-handed going into Game 3 on Thursday night. Interim coach Frank Vogel said point guard Darren Collison is doubtful after spraining his left ankle in the second quarter of Game 2. Collison insists he'll play.

Pacers hope Collison can play in Game 3 (AP)
Indiana Pacers point guard Darren Collison says he expects to play Thursday in Game 3 against Chicago after spraining his left ankle. The second-year point guard was injured late in the first half of Game 2 on Monday night when he stumbled into a cameraman on the baseline after a drive to the basket.

Pacers' Collison expects to play Game 3
Indiana Pacers point guard Darren Collison says he expects to play Thursday in Game 3 against Chicago.

2011 NBA Playoffs: Indiana Pacers guard Darren Collison is optimistic for Game 3
Indiana Pacers guard Darren Collison is optimistic to play in Game 3 against the Chicago Bulls after rolling his ankle Monday.

Bulls survive another scare, go up 2-0 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 18: T.J. Ford #5 of the Indiana Pacers hits Ronnie Brewer #11 of the Chicago Bulls in the face in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on April 18, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pacers 96-90. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 36 points, Carlos Boozer added 17 points and 16 rebounds, and the top-seeded Chicago Bulls pulled out another dramatic victory over Indiana, beating the Pacers 96-90 on Monday night in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series. Rose scored eight points over the final 4 minutes. Kyle Korver nailed another big 3-pointer to make it 90-85 with just over a minute left after hitting...




Rose's 36 points help Bulls edge Pacers
Derrick Rose scored 36 points, Carlos Boozer added 17 points and 16 rebounds, and the top-seeded Chicago Bulls pulled out another dramatic victory over Indiana, beating the Pacers 96-90 on Monday night in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series.

Indiana Pacers' Darren Collison exits game with sprained ankle
Indiana Pacers guard Darren Collison has a sprained left ankle and is questionable to return against the Chicago Bulls in Game 2 of their first-round series.

Bulls erase late deficit, tip Pacers for series lead
Derrick Rose scored 39 points, Kyle Korver nailed the go-ahead 3-pointer and the top-seeded Chicago Bulls rallied from a late 10-point deficit to beat the Indiana Pacers 104-99 in their playoff opener on Saturday.

Down 10 late, Bulls win behind Rose's 39 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 16: Carlos Boozer #5 of the Chicago Bulls and Tyler Hansbrough #50 of the Indiana Pacers battle for position on a free-throw in Game One of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs at the United Center on April 16, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Pacers 104-99. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Never mind what everyone else was thinking, Derrick Rose insisted he didn't expect the Chicago Bulls to roll over the Indiana Pacers. They certainly didn't in Game 1. Rose scored 39 points and found Kyle Korver for a tiebreaking 3-pointer with 48 seconds left, helping top-seeded Chicago stage a late rally to beat the Pacers 104-99 in their playoff opener on Saturday.




Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose said the Bulls could use President Obama at shooting guard
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose might have some explaining to do to backcourt mate Keith Bogans after Rose recruited President Obama to be the Bulls' shooting guard Thursday night.

Bulls hoping for deep playoff run (AP)
Dominant during the regular season, Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls are in unfamiliar territory as the playoffs begin. Expectations are soaring, and it's not hard to see why. All the Bulls did was post the best record in the league at 62-20 and secure homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs.

Ginobili injured as Spurs fall in finale (AP)

Phoenix Suns ' Aaron Brooks (0) drives against San Antonio Spurs ' George Hill during the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, April 13, 2011, in Phoenix.

Marcin Gortat had 21 points and 13 rebounds, and the Phoenix Suns denied San Antonio a chance for home-court advantage throughout the playoffs with a 106-103 victory over the Spurs in their regular-season finale on Wednesday night. The Spurs, who at 61-21 finished a game behind Chicago for the best record in the NBA, lost Manu Ginobili to a hyperextended right elbow early in the game.




Chicago Bulls' Tom Thibodeau: Derrick Rose is only going to get better
Iit wasn't until Tom Thibodeau took over as Chicago Bulls coach last summer that he saw Derrick Rose had something different.

Bulls earn playoff home-court advantage
The Chicago Bulls had just wrapped up their best regular season since Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen collected their final championship, and Derrick Rose was in no mood to celebrate.

Danny Granger maintains that Indiana Pacers have better shot at beating Chicago Bulls than Boston Celtics
Danny Granger maintains that he'd rather play Chicago than Boston.

Rose leads Bulls to NBA's best record (AP)
The Chicago Bulls jumped to the top of the Eastern Conference and earned homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs by finishing with the NBA's best record. Now, they're eyeing another championship. Their first-round series against Indianapolis starts Saturday. It will be another showcase for Bulls guard Derrick Rose, a favorite for the MVP award.

2011 NBA Playoffs: Chicago Bulls to open NBA playoffs at home on ESPN
The NBA playoffs begin on Saturday with four games on the ESPN/ABC family of networks.

Bulls win, wait on home-court advantage (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 13: Travis Outlaw #21 of the New Jersey Nets looses control of the ball as C.J. Watson #32 of the Chicago Bulls defends at the United Center on April 13, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agress that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Kyle Korver came up big down the stretch to finish with 19 points, Derrick Rose scored 15 and the Chicago Bulls closed the regular season with their ninth straight win, beating the New Jersey Nets 97-92 on Wednesday. The top seed in the Eastern Conference, the Bulls had to wait to see if they would get home-court advantage throughout the playoffs.




Michael Jordan defends self, wants Charlotte Bobcats to be like Chicago Bulls
As Michael Jordan adjusts to the patience involved in building an NBA team, he's found a club to pattern his young Charlotte Bobcats after: his old Chicago Bulls.

Chicago Bulls' Ronnie Brewer is out vs. New Jersey Nets with sprained thumb
Chicago Bulls guard Ronnie Brewer will miss Wednesday's game against the New Jersey Nets because of a sprained thumb, and Joakim Noah is questionable with a sore right ankle.

Chicago Bulls' Ronnie Brewer sprains thumb;Joakim Noah tweaks ankle
Bulls guard Ronnie Brewer has sprained left thumb ligaments and is questionable for Wednesday night's game against the Nets.



Bulls bury Knicks, still alive for NBA's top record
Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls stayed in the race for the NBA's best record, overwhelming the New York Knicks to start the second half and winning 103-90 on Tuesday night for their eighth straight victory.

Bulls top Knicks for eighth straight win (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Derrick Rose goes in for a dunk during the second half of the Bulls' NBA basketball game against the New York Knicks Tuesday, April 12, 2011, in New York. Rose scored 26 points as the Bulls won 103-90.

Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls stayed in the race for the NBA's best record, overwhelming the New York Knicks to start the second half and winning 103-90 on Tuesday night for their eighth straight victory. Rose scored 26 points for the Bulls, who opened the third quarter with a 26-2 spurt over the first 7-plus minutes and improved to 61-20.




Rose scores 26 as Bulls cruise
Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls stayed in the race for the NBA's best record, overwhelming the New York Knicks to start the second half and winning 103-90 on Tuesday night for their eighth straight victory.

Charles Barkley: Chicago Bulls have good chance to win NBA title
This Chicago Bulls team hasn't suffered playoff heartbreak -- an experience many say is a prerequisite for an NBA title -- but Charles Barkley doesn't believe that will stop them from winning a championship this season.

East-leading Bulls edge Magic
Derrick Rose had 39 points and five assists and Luol Deng added 15 to help the Chicago Bulls hold off the Orlando Magic 102-99 on Sunday.

Phil Jackson: Talk of Chicago Bulls-Los Angeles Lakers NBA Finals 'ludicrous'
Phil Jackson says talk of a Bulls-Lakers Finals is "ludicrous."

Rose's 39 lift surging Bulls past Magic (AP)
Derrick Rose had 39 points and five assists and Luol Deng added 15 to help the Chicago Bulls hold off the Orlando Magic 102-99 on Sunday. Orlando's Jameer Nelson appeared to tie it with a 3-pointer at the buzzer, but an official review upheld an initial call of no basket. Ryan Anderson led the Magic with a career-high 28 points, Jason Richardson added 24 and Nelson had 17.

Top-seeded Spurs beat reeling Jazz (AP)

San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich reacts during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Utah Jazz , Saturday, April 9, 2011, in San Antonio.

Richard Jefferson scored 20 points and the San Antonio Spurs began resting up with the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference secured, beating the Utah Jazz 111-102 on Saturday night. The Spurs (61-19) have two games left and are 1 1/2 games ahead of Chicago for the NBA's best record. Protecting that lead will likely fall to the bench as San Antonio focuses on keeping fresh for the playoffs.




Bulls top Cavaliers to clinch best record in East
Carlos Boozer had 24 points and 11 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference with a 93-82 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night.

Streaking Bulls clinch top seed in East (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Carlos Boozer dunks the ball in the first quarter in an NBA basketball game against the Cleveland Cavaliers Friday, April 8, 2011, in Cleveland. The Bulls won 93-82.

Carlos Boozer had 24 points and 11 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference with a 93-82 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night. Chicago, which has won six straight and 18 of 20, will have home-court advantage through the first three rounds of the playoffs.




Bulls clinch No. 1 seed in the East
Carlos Boozer had 24 points and 11 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference with a 93-82 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night.

Chicago Bulls' John Paxson: We didn't know Derrick Rose would be this good
As the No. 1 pick of the 2008 NBA draft, Derrick Rose wasn't exactly an unknown talent, but Chicago Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations John Paxson said the organization had no idea Rose would be this good.

Rose, Bulls beat Celts, close in on No. 1 in East
Derrick Rose scored 30 points and the Chicago Bulls closed in on the top seed in the Eastern Conference by beating the Boston Celtics 97-81 on Thursday.

Bulls on verge of clinching East's No. 1 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 07: Loul Deng #9 of the Chicago Bulls dunks the ball against the Boston Celtics at United Center on April 7, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Celtics 97-81. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agress that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 30 points and the Chicago Bulls closed in on the top seed in the Eastern Conference by beating the Boston Celtics 97-81 on Thursday. The Bulls' 17th win in 19 games put them four games up on Boston and Miami with four to play and eliminated the Heat from getting the No. 1 seed.




Chicago Bulls honor Scottie Pippen by unveiling bronze bust at halftime vs. Boston Celtics
The Chicago Bulls unvieled a bronze bust of Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen during halftime of the Celtics-Bulls game on Thursday night.

Kevin Garnett still hopeful Boston Celtics can catch Chicago Bulls
Boston Celtics forward Kevin Garnett is still hopeful his team can track down the Chicago Bulls for the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.

Strained calf sidelines Shaq again (AP)
Boston center Shaquille O'Neal missed his second straight game with a strained right calf when the Celtics played the Chicago Bulls on Thursday night. The 15-time All-Star returned Sunday against Detroit after missing 27 games because of a sore right leg but lasted just 5 minutes, 29 seconds before leaving again.

Bulls and Celtics battle in Chicago
The conference's top two teams battle in Chicago.

Carlos Boozer has Chicago Bulls tickets for Prince if he wants them
Carlos Boozer's differences with Prince are in the past, and if the music superstar is in the market for a Chicago Bulls ticket during the playoffs he now knows who to call.

Bulls vs. Celts key to East's top seed (AP)
Joakim Noah has a pretty good idea what to expect on Thursday night. The Chicago Bulls host the Boston Celtics in a game that could have a big impact on the race for the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, and he anticipates a charged atmosphere at the United Center. He says it's "going to be a zoo" and "very exciting." These, indeed, are exciting times in Chicago.

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah and forward Carlos Boozer are expected to play against the Phoenix Suns
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah and power forward Carlos Boozer practiced Tuesday and expect to face the Phoenix Suns.

Rose, Deng fuel Bulls to narrow win
It's all well and good to Derrick Rose that the Chicago Bulls are closing in on the top seed in the Eastern Conference.

Bulls stave off Suns to take 3-game lead in East
Derrick Rose finished with 19 points, Luol Deng scored 18 and the Chicago Bulls continued to close in on the top seed in the Eastern Conference, hanging on to beat the Phoenix Suns 97-94 Tuesday.

Bulls open 3-game lead on Celtics, Heat (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Carlos Boozer drives to the basket as Phoenix Suns ' Marcin Gortat (4) defends during the second half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, April 5, 2011, in Chicago. The Bulls defeated the Suns 97-94.

Derrick Rose finished with 19 points, Luol Deng scored 18 and the Chicago Bulls continued to close in on the top seed in the Eastern Conference, hanging on to beat the Phoenix Suns 97-94 Tuesday. They lead Miami and Boston by three games, with the Celtics visiting Thursday. The Bulls led by 13 at the half and 22 in the third, only to see Phoenix whittle it to two in the fourth quarter, before...




Suns G Nash returns, Bulls C Noah also (AP)
Phoenix's Steve Nash and Chicago's Joakim Noah returned to the lineup on Tuesday after being sidelined the past few games. Nash, averaging 15.3 points and 11.4 assists, sat out the past two games with flulike symptoms. Noah, Chicago's leading rebounder, had missed three straight because of a sprained right ankle.

Illinois freshman Jereme Richmond is leaving school and entering the NBA draft
Illinois freshman forward Jereme Richmond has declared for the NBA draft and will not return to Illinois, the school announced on Tuesday.

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah returned to practice while Carlos Boozer missed it with an illness
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah returned to practice Monday after being shelved for a week with an injured ankle.

Rose overpowers Raptors as Bulls pad East lead
Derrick Rose had 36 points and 10 assists, and the Chicago Bulls took another step toward the top seed in the Eastern Conference with their 15th win in 17 games, hanging on to beat the short-handed Toronto Raptors 113-106 on Saturday night.

Rose scores 36, gets revenge on Raptors (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Derrick Rose (1) shoots over Toronto Raptors ' Jerryd Bayless for three points during the first half of a NBA basketball game Saturday, April 2, 2011 in Chicago. Chicago Bulls beat the Toronto Raptors 113-106.

Derrick Rose remembered the celebration the last time the Chicago Bulls met Toronto. He wasn't about to let the Raptors yuck it up this time. Rose had 36 points and 10 assists, and Chicago took another step toward the top seed in the Eastern Conference with its 15th victory in 17 games, hanging on to beat the short-handed Raptors 113-106 on Saturday night.




Bulls now lead Heat by 3 games in East
Derrick Rose had 36 points and 10 assists, and the Chicago Bulls took another step toward the top seed in the Eastern Conference with their 15th win in 17 games, hanging on to beat the short-handed Toronto Raptors 113-106 on Saturday night.

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah will miss Saturday's game against the Toronto Raptors
Joakim Noah will miss his third consecutive game with an ankle injury.

Report: Tex Winter -- Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach -- to enter Basketball Hall of Fame
Tex Winter, guru of the triangle offense and Phil Jackson's longtime assistant with the Chicago Bulls and later the Los Angeles Lakers, will be enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame, according to a Chicago Tribune report citing an anonymous source.

Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau and center Joakim Noah support Dennis Rodman's bid for Hall of Fame
When the Detroit Pistons retire Dennis Rodman's jersey on Friday night, two supporters will be on the opponent's bench in Chicago Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau and center Joakim Noah.

Rose's big 4th powers Bulls by Pistons (AP)

Detroit Pistons ' Tayshuan Prince, right, drives to the basket against Chicago Bulls ' Luol Deng (9) in the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, April 1, 2011, in Auburn Hills, Mich. The Bulls defeated the Pistons 101-96.

Derrick Rose scored 13 of his 27 points in the first quarter and had a key assist in the final minute of the game, helping the Chicago Bulls hold off the Detroit Pistons 101-96 on Friday night. The Eastern Conference-leading Bulls enjoyed a comfortable lead for much of the game but the lowly Pistons pulled within three a couple times late in the final period.




Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is a game-time call against the Detroit Pistons
Joakim Noah is a game-time decision against the Pistons as he nurses his injured ankle.

Rodman: I was elected to Hall of Fame (AP)
Dennis Rodman has been voted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Rodman says he was informed Thursday to be in Houston for Sunday's announcement. The five-time NBA champion and two-time defensive player of the year was honored Friday night by the Detroit Pistons, who retired his No. 10 jersey, during halftime of their game against the Chicago Bulls.

Los Angeles Lakers' Phil Jackson, Chicago Bulls' Tom Thibodeau named NBA coaches of the month
Phil Jackson was named as the Western Conference Coach of the Month, the NBA announced Friday, after the Los Angeles Lakers finished March on an eight-game winning streak to improve their record to 12-1 since the calendar flipped from February.

Celts send Spurs to fifth straight loss (AP)

Boston Celtics ' Rajon Rondo , left, drives around San Antonio Spurs ' Antonio McDyess during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Thursday, March 31, 2011, in San Antonio. Boston won 107-97.

Rajon Rondo had 22 points and 14 assists, Paul Pierce scored 21 and the Boston Celtics stopped slipping further from first in the Eastern Conference, beating the slumping San Antonio Spurs 107-97 on Thursday night. Kevin Garnett added 20 points and the Celtics, winning for just the second time in five games, moved within two games of Chicago for the No.




Los Angeles Lakers' Ron Artest among 4 nominated for citizenship award
Ron Artest is one of four nominees, along with Orlando's Dwight Howard, Chicago's Kyle Korver and Portland's Marcus Camby, for the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship award.

Rose, Bulls blow out Wolves in Love's return
Derrick Rose had 23 points and 10 assists in three quarters and the Chicago Bulls blew out the Minnesota Timberwolves 108-91 on Wednesday night.

Noah-less Bulls bounce back, rip Wolves (AP)

Minnesota Timberwolves ' Michael Beasley , right, drives around Chicago Bulls ' Luol Deng during the first half of an NBA basketball game on Wednesday, March 30, 2011, in Minneapolis.

Derrick Rose had 23 points and 10 assists in three quarters and the Chicago Bulls blew out the Minnesota Timberwolves 108-91 on Wednesday night. Carlos Boozer had 24 points and 14 rebounds and the Bulls recorded 31 assists on 41 field goals to stay 2 1/2 games ahead of Boston and Miami in the race for the top seed in the Eastern Conference.




Bulls' Noah out against Timberwolves (AP)
The Chicago Bulls have scratched Joakim Noah from the lineup against Minnesota because of a sprained right ankle. Noah practiced on Tuesday and tested the ankle out in pregame warmups on Wednesday night, but was unable to go. Kurt Thomas started in his place. Noah is averaging 12.1 points and 11 rebounds, and the Bulls rely on his board work to start their fast breaks.

Minnesota Timberwolves star Kevin Love says he's a game-time call against the Chicago Bulls
Minnesota Timberwolves All-Star forward Kevin Love said Wednesday he'll be a game-time decision against the Chicago Bulls after missing the last three games with a strained left groin.

Chicago Bulls forward Joakim Noah is a game-time decision Wednesday
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is a game-time decision for Wednesday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves because of an injured right ankle.

Chicago Bulls' Taj Gibson wears bigger shoe for injured toe
Bulls forward Taj Gibson is wearing a bigger shoe to accommodate an injured toe.

76ers snap Bulls' 14-game home winning streak
Thaddeus Young scored 21 points and the Philadelphia 76ers built a 23-point lead and held on Monday night, beating the Chicago Bulls 97-85 and ending their 14-game home winning streak.

76ers hold on, end Bulls' home run at 14 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 28: Joakim Noah #13 of the Chicago Bulls puts up a shot between Thaddeus Young #21 and Jodie Meeks #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers at the United Center on March 28, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The 76ers defeated the Bulls 97-85. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Thaddeus Young scored 21 points and the Philadelphia 76ers built a 23-point lead and held on Monday night, beating the Chicago Bulls 97-85 and ending their 14-game home winning streak. Chicago, losing for only the second time in its last 14 games overall, got 31 points from Derrick Rose, who also had 10 turnovers.




Young leads 76ers past Bulls on road
Thaddeus Young scored 21 points and the Philadelphia 76ers built a 23-point lead and held on Monday night, beating the Chicago Bulls 97-85 and ending their 14-game home winning streak.

Ronnie Brewer: Chicago Bulls chasing San Antonio Spurs for NBA's top mark
Bulls set sights on topping Spurs for best record in the league.

Rose buries Bucks to pick up Bulls late in fourth
Derrick Rose hit three straight shots in the final two minutes, rallying the Chicago Bulls to a 95-87 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday night.

Rose's 30 and 17 help Bulls rally (AP)

MILWAUKEE, WI - MARCH 26:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls shoots a jumpshot against Brandon Jennings #3 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the NBA game on March 26, 2011 at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images)

Derrick Rose hit three straight shots in the final two minutes, rallying the Chicago Bulls to a 95-87 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday night. Rose scored 30 points and had a career-high 17 assists, and nearly single-handedly brought the Bulls from behind with the clock winding down. With Chicago trailing 87-83, Rose hit a pair of free throws, then fed Joakim Noah for a fast-break dunk...




Michael Redd returning to Milwaukee Bucks after missing 14 months
Milwaukee Bucks guard Michael Redd will suit up against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night and may play his first NBA game in more than 14 months.

Redd may play first game in 14 months (AP)
Milwaukee Bucks guard Michael Redd will suit up against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night and may play his first NBA game in more than 14 months. Redd tore ligaments in his left knee each of the previous two seasons, most recently in January 2010 just 18 games after he returned from his previous knee injury.

Rose rallies Bulls to a win over Bucks
Derrick Rose hit three straight shots in the final two minutes, rallying the Chicago Bulls to a 95-87 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday night.

Luol Deng, Taj Gibson, C.J. Watson to play for Chicago Bulls against Memphis Grizzlies
After sitting out practice on Thursday with nagging injuries, Luol Deng, Taj Gibson and C.J. Watson will play for the Chicago Bulls on Friday night against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Rose comes up clutch as Bulls rally past Griz
Derrick Rose scored Chicago's last seven points, including an acrobatic layup that led to a crucial three-point play, and the Bulls beat the rugged Memphis Grizzlies 99-96 on Friday night.

Rose scores last 7, Bulls beat Grizzlies (AP)

Memphis Grizzlies ' Mike Conley , right, shoots over Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng during the second half of an NBA basketball game on Friday, March 25, 2011, in Chicago. The Bulls won 99-96.

Derrick Rose scored Chicago's last seven points, including an acrobatic layup that led to a crucial three-point play, and the Bulls beat the rugged Memphis Grizzles 99-96 on Friday night. Rose made two free throws with 2 1/2 minutes left to give Chicago the lead, then drove past Tony Allen and converted over Marc Gasol with 10 seconds remaining to increase Chicago's lead to 97-93.




Floyd Mayweather Jr.: Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose is one 'you can bet on'
Two days after posting a picture on his Twitter account of a betting slip that showed he won $37,272.75 on the Chicago Bulls, boxer and Derrick Rose fan Floyd Mayweather Jr. said he would have bet $100,000 on his favorite player's team.

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says media already picked Derrick Rose as MVP
Stan Van Gundy believes the MVP race is already over, and Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls is going to win it.

Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says media already picked Derrick Rose as MVP
Stan Van Gundy believes the MVP race is already over, and Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls is going to win it.

Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer has filed a lawsuit over a $1 million investment
Attorneys for Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer have filed a lawsuit against a company in Florida, alleging Boozer and his ex-wife were "fraudulently" and "maliciously" induced to invest $1 million in the company, which squandered the investment.

According to his Twitter post, Floyd Mayweather won over $37,000 on the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday night
Boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. posted a picture on his Twitter account Wednesday morning of a betting slip from the M Resort in Las Vegas that showed he won $37,272.75 on the Bulls, who faced the Atlanta Hawks the previous night.

Bulls rout Hawks, alone again atop East (AP)

ATLANTA - MARCH 22: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls drives against Josh Smith #5 of the Atlanta Hawks on March 22, 2011 at Philips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.  (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images)

Derrick Rose had 30 points and 10 assists, helping the Chicago Bulls move back in the Eastern Conference lead with a runaway 114-81 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. Chicago's starters sat out the final period after the Bulls set season highs with 41 points in the second period and 72 points in the first half.




Rose, Bulls embarrass Hawks in Atlanta
Derrick Rose had 30 points and 10 assists, helping the Chicago Bulls move back in the Eastern Conference lead with a runaway 114-81 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night.

Bulls rout Hawks, pass idle Celts for 1st in East
Derrick Rose had 30 points and 10 assists, helping the Chicago Bulls move back in the Eastern Conference lead with a runaway 114-81 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night.

Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer to play against Sacramento Kings
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer will play Monday against the Sacramento Kings barring a setback after missing five games because of a sprained left ankle.

Bulls roll to 132-92 win over Kings (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 21: Francisco Garcia #32 of the Sacramento Kings sits on the bench near the end of a game against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on March 21, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Kings 132-92. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose and Kyle Korver scored 18 points apiece as the Chicago Bulls routed the Sacramento Kings 132-92 on Monday night. The win gave the Bulls (50-19) their first 50-win season since 1997-98 and allowed Chicago to remain tied with Boston atop the Eastern Conference. The Celtics beat the New York Knicks on Monday.




Chicago Bulls sign Jannero Pargo and John Lucas III
As expected, the Chicago Bulls signed guards John Lucas III and Jannero Pargo on Sunday.

Sources: Chicago Bulls set to re-sign John Lucas III; Jannero Pargo next?
The Bulls are re-signing guard John Lucas III and weighing whether to bring back fellow guard Pargo as well, according to sources with knowledge of the team's thinking.

Pacers prevail in OT, snap Bulls' 8-win streak
Tyler Hansbrough had 29 points and 12 rebounds to help the Indiana Pacers beat Chicago 115-108 in overtime on Friday night, snapping the Bulls' eight-game winning streak.

Rose scores 42 but Bulls' run ends at 8 (AP)
Tyler Hansbrough had 29 points and 12 rebounds to help the Indiana Pacers beat Chicago 115-108 in overtime on Friday night, snapping the Bulls' eight-game winning streak. Danny Granger scored 19 points and Darren Collison added 17 for the Pacers, who have won three of four. Derrick Rose tied a career high with 42 points for the Bulls.

Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer will miss his fifth straight game with a sprained ankle
Chicago Bulls power forward Carlos Boozer will miss his fifth straight game Friday night against the Indiana Pacers because of a sprained left ankle.

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah will play against the New Jersey Nets
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah will Thursday night against the New Jersey Nets despite suffering from flu-like symptoms, but power forward Carlos Boozer remains out with a sprained left ankle.

Bulls to unveil bronze bust of Pippen
The Chicago Bulls plan to unveil a bronze bust of Scottie Pippen during halftime of a game against the Boston Celtics next month.

Rose's 21 helps Bulls beat Nets for 8th straight
Derrick Rose scored 21 points and the Chicago Bulls extended their longest winning streak in six years to eight games with an 84-73 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Thursday night.

Bulls roll to eighth straight victory (AP)

New Jersey Nets coach Avery Johnson reacts during the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls , Thursday, March 17, 2011 in Newark, N.J. The Bulls defeated the Nets 84-73.

Derrick Rose scored 21 points and the Chicago Bulls extended their longest winning streak in six years to eight games with an 84-73 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Thursday night. Luol Deng added 19 points for the Bulls (49-18), who took a half-game lead over idle Boston in the race for the best record in the Eastern Conference.




Chicago Bulls to honor Scottie Pippen with bronze bust
The Chicago Bulls will honor Scottie Pippen with a bronze bust of the Hall of Famer during a ceremony at halftime of a game against the Boston Celtics on April 7 at the United Center.

Celtics gain share of lead in East (AP)

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 16:  Danny Granger #33 of the Indiana Pacers takes a shot as Paul Pierce #34 of the Boston Celtics defends on March 16, 2011 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeated the Indiana Pacers 92-80. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Jeff Green scored 13 of his 19 points in the second quarter, and the Boston Celtics coasted to a 92-80 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night and moved back into a first-place tie in the Eastern Conference. The victory left the Celtics and Chicago Bulls (48-18) with the same record in the race for home-court advantage through the conference finals.




Chicago Bulls' Joakim Noah practices, expected to start vs. New Jersey Nets
Joakim Noah returned to Chicago Bulls practice on Wednesday and is expected to start against the New Jersey Nets on Thursday.

Chicago Bulls Joakim Noah was sent home from practice, and Carlos Boozer will not face the Washington Wizards
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah was sent home from shootaround with an illness, and he's a game-time decision for Tuesday night's game against the Washington Wizards. Carlos Boozer will miss the game with a sprained left ankle.

Bulls best Wizards to gain control of first in East
Derrick Rose scored 23 points in Chicago's seventh straight win, a 98-79 victory over the Washington Wizards on Tuesday night that moved the Bulls into sole possession of first place in the Eastern Conference.

Bulls move atop East, extend streak to 7 (AP)

Washington Wizards center JaVale McGee , left, battles Chicago Bulls guard Keith Bogans for a loose ball during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, March 15, 2011, in Chicago. The Bulls won 98-79.

Derrick Rose scored 23 points in Chicago's seventh straight win, a 98-79 victory over the Washington Wizards on Tuesday night that moved the Bulls into sole possession of first place in the Eastern Conference. Luol Deng added 20 points and Keith Bogans scored 17, his highest total since joining the Bulls.




Rose, Bulls cruise to 7th straight win
Derrick Rose scored 23 points in Chicago's seventh straight win, a 98-79 victory over the Washington Wizards on Tuesday night that moved the Bulls into sole possession of first place in the Eastern Conference.

Bulls F Boozer remains day to day
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer remains day to day even though his sprained left ankle continues to improve.

Derrick Rose: Michael Jordan's title prediction pressures Chicago Bulls
Derrick Rose said Michael Jordan put some pressure on the team when he said the Bulls can win six more titles.

Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer misses practice with sprained ankle
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer missed practice again Monday as he continues to nurse a sprained left ankle he suffered on March 9.

Surging Bulls gain share of East lead (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 12: Al Jefferson #25 of the Utah Jazz rolls in a shot over Joakim Noah #13 of the Chicago Bulls on his way to a game-high 33 points at the United Center on March 12, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Jazz 118-100. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose and Luol Deng each scored 26 points, and the Chicago Bulls ran away with their 13th win in 15 games, all but grabbing a share of the Eastern Conference lead with an easy 118-100 victory over the Utah Jazz on Saturday. Rose scored 17 points in a blistering first quarter as the Bulls grabbed a 37-17 lead, and Chicago set a franchise record with 18 3-pointers while pulling within...




Michael Jordan says Chicago Bulls look ready to win multiple titles during halftime ceremony honoring 1900-91 champs
Michael Jordan says he expects more Bulls titles during a halftime ceremony honoring the 1990-91 champs.

Bulls honor first championship team
Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen were together again for another championship celebration, this time to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Chicago Bulls' first title.

Carlos Boozer out for Chicago Bulls against Paul Millsap-less Utah Jazz
Injured forwards Carlos Boozer and Paul Millsap sat out the game between the Bulls and Jazz on Saturday night, leaving each team without its second-leading scorer.

Bulls' Boozer, Jazz's Millsap sit out (AP)
Injured forwards Carlos Boozer and Paul Millsap sat out the game between the Chicago Bulls and Utah Jazz on Saturday night, leaving each team without its second-leading scorer. Boozer, averaging 18.3 points and 9.6 rebounds for the Bulls, missed his second straight game because of a sprained left ankle.

Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer will not play against Atlanta Hawks
Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer will not play against the Atlanta Hawks.

Rose scores 34 to lead Bulls' charge past Hawks
Derrick Rose came on strong after a slow start to finish with 34 points, and the Chicago Bulls ran away with their 12th win in 14 games, beating the struggling Atlanta Hawks 94-76 on Friday.

Rose has 34, Boozer-less Bulls top Hawks (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 11: Rasual Butler #45 of the Chicago Bulls gets his first playing time and basket as a member of the Bulls against the Atlanta Hawks at the United Center on March 11, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Hawks 94-76. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose came on strong after a slow start to finish with 34 points, and the Chicago Bulls ran away with their 12th win in 14 games, beating the struggling Atlanta Hawks 94-76 on Friday. The Bulls prevailed on a night when Carlos Boozer sat out with a sprained left ankle thanks to a strong third quarter.




Rose finishes strong in win over Hawks
Derrick Rose came on strong after a slow start to finish with 34 points, and the Chicago Bulls ran away with their 12th win in 14 games, beating the struggling Atlanta Hawks 94-76 on Friday.

Bulls' Boozer out, Deng starts instead
Carlos Boozer missed the Chicago Bulls' game against the Atlanta Hawks because of a sprained left ankle, while Luol Deng started despite a bruised left thigh.

Boozer may miss week with ankle injury
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer is day-to-day with a sprained left ankle and could be out for as much as a week.

Jordan says Bulls' Rose is season's MVP
Michael Jordan, arguably the NBA's greatest player of all time, just lauded Chicago's Derrick Rose with the greatest compliment of all time.

Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer is day to day with a sprained ankle
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer is listed as day-to-day after X-rays proved negative and an MRI on his sprained left ankle did not reveal any damage.

Michael Jordan calls Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose 'MVP of the season'
Former Bulls legend Michael Jordan believes Derrick Rose is the MVP of the league.

Chicago Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf predicts multiple championships
Chicago Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf isn't hedging his optimism for his surging basketball team. In fact, he borrowed LeBron James' crystal ball in predicting another run of titles in Chicago.

President Barack Obama thanks Boston Celtics for 'giving' Tom Thibodeau to Chicago Bulls
The Boston Celtics got a rare chance to rub elbows with President Obama on Tuesday night and all the leader of the free world wanted to talk about was Tom Thibodeau and the Chicago Bulls.

Boozer injured as Bulls beat Bobcats (AP)

Chicago Bulls guard Kyle Korver prepares to catch and shoot in the second half against the Charlotte Bobcats in an NBA basketball game on Wednesday, March 9, 2011, in Charlotte, N.C. Korver scored 20 points as Chicago won 101-84.

Derrick Rose and Kyle Korver scored 20 points apiece and the Chicago Bulls pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat the Charlotte Bobcats 101-84 on Wednesday night, a victory dimmed by Carlos Boozer's leg injury. Korver had 12 points in the final period and Joakim Noah added 12 points and 13 rebounds for the Bulls, who won for the 11th time in 13 games and expanded their hold on second place...




Boozer hurts leg as Rose leads Bulls by Bobcats
Derrick Rose and Kyle Korver scored 20 points apiece and the Chicago Bulls pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat the Charlotte Bobcats 101-84 on Wednesday night, a victory dimmed by Carlos Boozer's leg injury.

Bobcats give up on Collins, sign Temple (AP)
Two missed flights have ended guard Sherron Collins' chance of returning to the Charlotte Bobcats. Coach Paul Silas says they planned to bring back the undrafted rookie from Kansas after waiving him, but withdrew the offer last week after Collins missed two flights the team had arranged from his hometown of Chicago.

Bulls too much for shorthanded Hornets
The Chicago Bulls were coming off two big wins and staring at a team missing its franchise player.

Rose leads Bulls over Paul-less Hornets (AP)

New Orleans Hornets guard Chris Paul , left, talks with forward Carl Landry during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls Monday, March 7, 2011, in Chicago. Paul is recovering from a concussion. The Bulls won 85-77.

Derrick Rose scored 24 points, and the Chicago Bulls beat New Orleans 85-77 on Monday night with Hornets star Chris Paul sidelined by a concussion. The four-time All-Star watched from the sideline after colliding with Cleveland's Ramon Sessions in Sunday's win and remains day to day. Without him, the Hornets put up a fight against the Central division leaders but were shut out over the...




Chris Paul of New Orleans Hornets sits out for concussion
New Orleans Hornets star Chris Paul sat out Monday's game against the Chicago Bulls and remains day to day because of a concussion.

Erik Spoelstra, Miami Heat address talk of tears
Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said the widespread reaction to comments he made about tears being shed in his team's locker room after Sunday's loss to the Chicago Bulls is a crying shame.

Bulls complete sweep as Heat lose 4th straight
Derrick Rose scored 27 points, Luol Deng capped an 18-point effort with two free throws that put Chicago ahead for good, and the Bulls beat Miami 87-86 on Sunday to hand the Heat their fourth straight loss.

Bulls deal Heat fourth straight loss (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Carlos Boozer , center, yells after the Bulls took a one-point lead in the closing seconds of the fourth quarter during an NBA basketball game against the Miami Heat in Miami, Sunday, March 6, 2011. The Bulls defeated the Heat 87-86.

Derrick Rose scored 27 points, Luol Deng capped an 18-point effort with two free throws that put Chicago ahead for good, and the Bulls beat Miami 87-86 on Sunday to hand the Heat their fourth straight loss. Carlos Boozer scored 12 and Joakim Noah added 11 for the Bulls, who moved a game ahead of Miami into outright possession of second place in the Eastern Conference and beat the Heat for the...




Rose, Bulls bounce back with big win over Magic
Derrick Rose had 24 points and Luol Deng added 16 to help the Chicago Bulls hang on for an 89-81 win over the Orlando Magic on Friday night in a matchup of two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.

Rose, Bulls hang on for win vs. Magic
Derrick Rose had 24 points and Luol Deng added 16 to help the Chicago Bulls hang on for an 89-81 win over the Orlando Magic on Friday night in a matchup of two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.

Bulls end Magic's 4-game winning streak (AP)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (12) fights for a rebound against Chicago Bulls ' Omer Asik (3), of Turkey, and Taj Gibson (22) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Orlando, Fla., Friday, March 4, 2011.

Derrick Rose had 24 points and Luol Deng added 16 to help the Chicago Bulls hang on for an 89-81 win over the Orlando Magic on Friday night in a matchup of two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls bounced back from one of their worst games of the month against Atlanta on Wednesday to post their eighth victory in 10 games.




C Howard faces 1-game ban for techs (AP)
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard faces a one-game suspension after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. Howard, who leads the NBA in technicals this season, was whistled for another one with 1:41 left in the first half Friday night against Chicago. If the call is upheld following a review by the league, Howard would be suspended for Orlando's next game against Portland on Monday...

Chicago signs swingman Butler
The Chicago Bulls have signed swingman Rasual Butler, hoping he can help them in their push for the top seed in the Eastern Conference.

Rasual Butler to take physical, to join Chicago Bulls for practice
Free agent forward Rasual Butler told ESPN 1000 he was scheduled to take a physical Thursday morning before joining the Chicago Bulls for practice in Orlando.

Bulls sign ex-Clippers swingman Butler (AP)
The Chicago Bulls have signed swingman Rasual Butler, hoping he can help them in their push for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls announced the move on Thursday. He had been waived earlier in the week by the Los Angeles Clippers. The 31-year-old Butler appeared in 41 games with the Clippers, averaging 5.0 points in 18.1 minutes per game.

Kirk Hinrich set for Bulls, 'nightmare' of slowing Derrick Rose
Kirk Hinrich praised Derrick Rose before facing his old team Wednesday.

Down 19, Hawks rally past Bulls 83-80 (AP)

Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose (1) drives against Atlanta Hawks guard Kirk Hinrich (6) in the third quarter of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, March 2, 2011 in Atlanta. Atlanta won 83-80.

With his Hawks trailing the Chicago Bulls 14-0 after missing their first seven shots, coach Larry Drew called a timeout and "just told the guys we were all right." Al Horford then showed he was better than that, delivering one of the best games of his career to lead a comeback that wasn't complete until the final minute.




Horford, Hawks use 2nd-half rally to edge Bulls
Al Horford matched his career high with 31 points, including a jam with 29 seconds remaining to give Atlanta its first lead, and the Hawks beat the Chicago Bulls 83-80 on Wednesday night.

Hawks storm back late to beat Bulls
Al Horford matched his career high with 31 points, including a jam with 29 seconds remaining to give Atlanta its first lead, and the Hawks beat the Chicago Bulls 83-80 on Wednesday night.

Josh Smith of Atlanta Hawks to get MRI on right knee
Kirk Hinrich is making his first start for the Hawks in his first home game in Atlanta, but the team is without injured forward Josh Smith against the Chicago Bulls.

Hawks' Hinrich to start, Smith sits out (AP)
Kirk Hinrich is making his first start for the Hawks in his first home game in Atlanta, but the team is without injured forward Josh Smith against the Chicago Bulls. Smith is having an MRI on his right knee on Wednesday night. He hurt his knee in Tuesday night's loss at Denver and the team said he suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament.

Report: Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose reveals his text to woo LeBron James
Amid all the hoopla surrounding teams' recruiting pitches to the most heralded free agent class in NBA history this summer, the Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose took a low-key approach in his wooing of LeBron James.

Report: Rasual Butler's agent said he'll sign with Chicago Bulls
Rasual Butler's agent reportedly said Wednesday that his client will sign with the Chicago Bulls when he clears waivers, according to CSNChicago.com.

Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose is fine with team as it currently stands
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose is confident his team is good enough to win a title this season, regardless of whether they end up making a move over the next few days.

Bulls maul Wizards to pull within game of Heat
Luol Deng and Derrick Rose scored 21 points apiece, Joakim Noah had 19, and the Chicago Bulls beat the Washington Wizards 105-77 Monday night to move within a game of the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference.

Bulls top Wizards, within 1 game of Heat (AP)

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 28: Joakim Noah #13 of the Chicago Bulls chases John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards on a fast break at the Verizon Center in Washington on February 28, 2011 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Luol Deng and Derrick Rose scored 21 points apiece, Joakim Noah had 19, and the Chicago Bulls beat the Washington Wizards 105-77 Monday night to move within a game of the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls never trailed as they won their third straight and seventh in eight games. Rose brought out some oohs and aahs with a backward between-the-legs pass to Noah for a fast-break dunk,...




Source: Rasual Butler bought out by Los Angeles Clippers, eyes Chicago Bulls
The Los Angeles Clippers have bought out Rasual Butler, and he plans to sign with the Chicago Bulls, a league source told ESPN The Magazine's Ric Bucher.

Deng, Rose power surging Bulls by Bucks (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Joakim Noah battles for the rebound with the Milwaukee Bucks ' Andrew Bogut (6) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011, in Milwaukee. The Bulls defeated the Bucks 83-75.

With Joakim Noah back in the lineup, the Chicago Bulls are starting to feel pretty good about themselves. Fueled by Noah's 17 rebounds and Luol Deng's 19 points, the Bulls pulled away from the Milwaukee Bucks for an 83-75 win on Saturday night. Chicago has won six of seven to improve to 15-4 since Jan.




Bulls pull away from Bucks to win 6th of last 7
Luol Deng scored 19 points, Derrick Rose had 17 and the surging Chicago Bulls beat the Milwaukee Bucks 83-75 on Saturday night.

Gar Forman: Chicago Bulls never really close to making a deal
Many of the trade calls Gar Forman fielded in the days leading up to Thursday's trade deadline involved Taj Gibson and Omer Asik, but the Chicago Bulls general manager said they never got close to a deal.

Rose, Deng lead Bulls over Heat 93-89 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 24: LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat reacts after diving fora loose ball and colliding with the scorer's table during a game against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on February 24, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Heat 93-89. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

From his spot in the corner, Luol Deng saw Dwyane Wade rotate to stop Derrick Rose and knew his moment was coming. He was all alone, wide open. Then, in a flash, he was celebrating and so was just about everyone else in the arena. Deng buried the tiebreaking 3-pointer with 16 seconds left and finished with 20 points, Rose scored 26 and the Chicago Bulls beat the Miami Heat 93-89 on Thursday night in...




Rose sets up late Deng 3 as Bulls edge Heat
Derrick Rose scored 26 points and Luol Deng added 20, including the tiebreaking 3, and the Chicago Bulls beat the Miami Heat 93-89 on Thursday night in a wild showdown between two of the Eastern Conference's top teams.

Healthy Bulls and Heat square off in Chicago
Chicago's starting five is finally healthy, but so is Miami's.

Rose, Deng lead Bulls over Heat
Derrick Rose scored 26 points and Luol Deng added 20, including the tiebreaking 3, and the Chicago Bulls beat the Miami Heat 93-89 on Thursday night in a wild showdown between two of the Eastern Conference's top teams.

Mike Miller will sit out for Miami Heat due to ear infection
Miami Heat forward Mike Miller will miss Thursday's game at Chicago because of an ear infection, sidelining him for a third straight game.

Chicago Bulls do not make a move prior to trade deadline
The Chicago Bulls did not make a move prior to Thursday's trade deadline, refusing to deal big men Taj Gibson or Omer Asik.

Heat's Miller out with ear infection
Miami forward Mike Miller will miss the matchup against Chicago because of an ear infection, sidelining him for a third straight game.

Miami Heat's Chris Bosh likes Derrick Rose over LeBron James for MVP
Like his Miami Heat teammate Juwan Howard, Chris Bosh says that if he had a vote for the MVP award he would vote for the Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose, instead of his own teammate LeBron James.

Chicago Bulls' Joakim Noah says he has a lot of work to do in his return
As he prepared to play his first game in more than two months on Wednesday, Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah said he has a lot of work ahead of him.

Miami Heat forward Juwan Howard says he would pick Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose as MVP
Miami Heat forward Juwan Howard did not take the easy way out Wednesday when saying Derrick Rose deserved MVP honors over his teammate LeBron James at this point in the season.

DeRozan, Raptors spoil Noah's return, top Bulls
Andrea Bargnani and DeMar DeRozan each scored 24 points, Jose Calderon had 17 assists and the Toronto Raptors beat the Bulls 118-113 on Wednesday night, snapping Chicago's four-game winning streak and spoiling Joakim Noah's return from thumb surgery.

Raptors spoil Noah's return, beat Bulls (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Luol Deng (right) shoots on Toronto Raptors ' Jose Calderon during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Toronto on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011.

Andrea Bargnani and DeMar DeRozan each scored 24 points, Jose Calderon had 17 assists and the Toronto Raptors beat the Bulls 118-113 on Wednesday night, snapping Chicago's four-game winning streak and spoiling Joakim Noah's return from thumb surgery. Derrick Rose scored 19 of his 32 points in the fourth quarter and had 10 assists, and Carlos Boozer had 24 for the Bulls, who had won 10 of...




Noah to start for Bulls vs. Raptors
Sidelined for more than two months by a torn ligament in his right thumb, Joakim Noah will return to the Chicago Bulls' lineup when they visit Toronto on Wednesday.

James, Wade lead Heat to rout of Kings (AP)

MIAMI, FL - FEBRUARY 22:  Donte Green #20 of the Sacramento Kings looks to pass around James Jones #22 of the Miami Heat during a game at American Airlines Arena on February 22, 2011 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Potential trouble signs were everywhere for the Miami Heat. The first game back after the All-Star break. A bit of cross country-travel fatigue for LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. Looming big-time matchups with the Chicago Bulls and new-look New York Knicks. Not a problem. James scored 31 points, Wade added 23 and the Heat opened their post-All-Star schedule with an easy 117-97 win over the...




Raptors acquire F Johnson from Bulls (AP)
The Toronto Raptors are getting even younger by acquiring second-year forward James Johnson from the Chicago Bulls for a first-round pick in this year's draft. General manager Bryan Colangelo says the Raptors have been eyeing Johnson since the 2009 draft. The former Wake Forest player went to the Bulls with the 16th pick.

Sources: James Johnson traded from Chicago Bulls to Toronto Raptors for pick
The Chicago Bulls have sent James Johnson to the Toronto Raptors for a future second round pick, sources told ESPN The Magazine's Ric Bucher.

Chicago Bulls' Joakim Noah to start Wednesday against Toronto Raptors
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah, who missed 30 games after thumb surgery, will start against the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday.

Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said Joakim Noah will return to action on Wednesday
As expected, Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah will return to action in Toronto on Wednesday after missing 30 games with thumb surgery, coach Tom Thibodeau confirmed Monday in a wide-ranging interview with ESPN Chicago.

Bulls charge into break on high note (AP)
Carlos Boozer's grin was as wide as the lane. The Chicago Bulls had just finished off another opponent, this time old friend Michael Jordan's Charlotte Bobcats, and he could hardly contain himself. At 38-16, the Bulls already have nearly as many wins as they did in each of the previous two seasons (41) and are enjoying their best season since the Jordan-Scottie Pippen championship era,...

Chicago Bulls executive John Paxson said no trade will be made that could affect team chemistry
Chicago Bulls executive vice president John Paxson isn't discounting the possibility of making a move before the Feb. 24 trade deadline, but he said no deal will be made that could potentially disrupt the chemistry of his surging team.

Rose has career-high 42, Bulls top Spurs (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 17: Tony Parker #9 of the San Antonio Spurs sits on the bench with a knee injury near the end of a game against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on February 17, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Spurs 109-99. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose had a career-high 42 points and the Chicago Bulls headed into the All-Star break with an impressive 109-99 victory over the NBA-leading San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night. Luol Deng had 19 points and Carlos Boozer finished with 15 for Chicago, which shot 54 percent in its fourth consecutive win.




Rose, Wall voted into Skills Challenge (AP)
Stephen Curry of Golden State, Derrick Rose of Chicago, John Wall of Washington and Russell Westbrook of Oklahoma City were selected in fan voting to compete against New Orleans point guard Chris Paul in the NBA Skills Challenge on Saturday. Fans had four weeks to vote online for players eligible through the "choose your squad" program.

Rose goes for career-high 42 vs. Spurs
Derrick Rose had a career-high 42 points and the Chicago Bulls headed into the All-Star break with an impressive 109-99 victory over the NBA-leading San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night.

Rose, Wall voted into Skills Challenge
Stephen Curry of Golden State, Derrick Rose of Chicago, John Wall of Washington and Russell Westbrook of Oklahoma City were selected in fan voting to compete against New Orleans point guard Chris Paul in the NBA Skills Challenge on Saturday.

Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose enjoyed playing in front of Michael Jordan
The Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose said he enjoyed playing in front of Bulls legend Michael Jordan during a 106-94 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats on Tuesday.

Deng, Rose lead Bulls by pesky Bobcats (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 15: Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls puts up a shot against the Charlotte Bobcats at the United Center on February 15, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Bobcats 106-94. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Luol Deng scored 24 points, Derrick Rose had 18 points and 13 assists after a slow start, and the Chicago Bulls beat the pesky Charlotte Bobcats 106-94 on Tuesday night for their ninth win in 11 games. In a game of momentum swings, the Bulls needed a strong finish to pull this one out and put away a team that blew out the Lakers the previous night.




Deng's 24 points help Bulls knock off Bobcats
Luol Deng scored 24 points, Derrick Rose had 18 points and 13 assists after a slow start, and the Chicago Bulls beat the pesky Charlotte Bobcats 106-94 on Tuesday night for their ninth win in 11 games.

Bulls rally from 12 down to beat Hornets (AP)

New Orleans Hornets head coach Monty Williams, right, speaks with referee Josh Tiven about a call against the Hornets in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls in New Orleans, Saturday, Feb. 12, 2011. Chicago defeated New Orleans 97-88.

Derrick Rose scored 23 points and the Chicago Bulls methodically turned a 12-point third-quarter deficit into a comfortable 97-88 victory over the New Orleans Hornets on Saturday night. Carlos Boozer had 17 points and Luol Deng 14 for the Bulls, who outscored the Hornets 25-14 in the fourth quarter to close out a five-game road trip at 3-2.




Joakim Noah hopes to rejoin Chicago Bulls after All-Star break
Bulls center Joakim Noah is on schedule with his rehabiliation and expects to be back on the floor right after the All-Star break.

Aldridge scores 37, Blazers beat Raptors (AP)

Toronto Raptors ' Joey Dorsey , left, tips in a rebound over Portland Trail Blazers ' Joel Przybilla during first-half NBA basketball game action in Toronto, Friday, Feb. 11, 2011.

LaMarcus Aldridge scored 14 of his 37 points in the fourth quarter, Rudy Fernandez had 23 and the Portland Trail Blazers won their third straight game, beating the skidding Toronto Raptors 102-96 on Friday night. Coming off a career-high 42 points in Monday's win over Chicago, Aldridge shot 14 for 25 and grabbed 10 rebounds.




Pistons to retire Rodman's No. 10 (AP)
The Detroit Pistons plan to retire Dennis Rodman's No. 10 during a halftime ceremony in April. The eccentric rebounding specialist helped the Pistons win NBA titles in 1989 and 1990. He'll be honored April 1 when the Pistons host the Chicago Bulls, a team Rodman won three championships with from 1996-98.

Charlotte Bobcats' Paul Silas: Michael Jordan could average 20 points today
Charlotte Bobcats coach Paul Silas said Michael Jordan could average 20 points if he played in the NBA today.

Boozer, Korver help Bulls get best of Jazz
Derrick Rose scored 29 points and former Jazz players Kyle Korver and Ronnie Brewer made key plays late Wednesday night to lift the Chicago Bulls to a 91-86 victory over Utah in a game that marked the return of Carlos Boozer to Salt Lake City.

Rose, Bulls win Boozer's return to Utah (AP)

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - FEBRUARY 9:  Deron Williams #8 of the Utah Jazz after the game with Carlos Boozer #5 of the Chicago Bulls at EnergySolutions Arena on February 9, 2011 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 29 points and former Jazz players Kyle Korver and Ronnie Brewer made key plays late Wednesday night to lift the Chicago Bulls to a 91-86 victory over Utah in a game that marked the return of Carlos Boozer to Salt Lake City. Boozer, who played five seasons for the Jazz but signed as a free agent with Chicago after last season, finished with 14 points and six rebounds for...




Utah Jazz's Jerry Sloan has no problems with Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer
The Utah Jazz's Jerry Sloan said he has no problems with the Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer.

Aldridge, Blazers hand Bulls 2nd straight defeat
LaMarcus Aldridge had a career-high 42 points and the Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Chicago Bulls 109-103 on Monday night.

Aldridge's 42 help Blazers beat Bulls (AP)

Portland Trail Blazers ' LaMarcus Aldridge goes the basket as he is fouled by Chicago Bulls ' Keith Bogans (6) during the third quarter of their NBA basketball game Monday, Feb. 7, 2011, in Portland, Ore. The Trail Blazers defeated the Bulls 109-103.

LaMarcus Aldridge had a career-high 42 points and the Portland Trail Blazers defeated the Chicago Bulls 109-103 on Monday night. Derrick Rose had 36 points for the Bulls, who lost their second straight. Chicago has not lost three in a row this season. Aldridge's 20-foot jumper with 1:11 left made it 100-93 and appeared to seal it for the Blazers, but Rose answered with a 3-pointer with just more...




Portland Trail Blazers' Nicolas Batum: Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose can't play defense
The Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose had 36 points, but his defense helped the Portland Trail Blazers win, says Nicolas Batum.

Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer looking forward to return to Utah
Carlos Boozer returns to Utah on Wednesday.

Warriors smother Rose, end Bulls' streak (AP)

Golden State Warriors ' Monta Ellis lays up a shot during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls Saturday, Feb. 5, 2011, in Oakland, Calif.

Stephen Curry sat in on the coaches meeting Friday, studying, planning and preparing to do something few others have done this season: Stop Derrick Rose. The game plan worked to near perfection. Monta Ellis scored 33 points, Curry had 23 and the Golden State Warriors smothered Rose defensively to snap Chicago's six-game wining streak with a 101-90 victory over the Bulls on Saturday night.




Hot Bulls end Clippers' home streak at 9 (AP)

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 2:   Al-Farouq Aminu #3 of the Los Angeles Clippers shoots over Taj Gibson #22 of the Chicago Bulls at Staples Center on February 2, 2011  in Los Angeles, California. The Bulls won 106-88.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 32 points and the Chicago Bulls beat the Clippers 106-88 on Wednesday night for their sixth straight victory, snapping Los Angeles' nine-game home winning streak. The Bulls never trailed as they began a five-game road trip with their 23rd victory in 29 games -- a stretch that began one game after Carlos Boozer returned to the lineup from a broken right hand.




Bulls win 6th in row, end Clips' home streak at 9
Derrick Rose scored 32 points and the Chicago Bulls beat the Clippers 106-88 on Wednesday night for their sixth straight victory, snapping Los Angeles' nine-game home winning streak.

Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer says he deserves to be an NBA All-Star
The Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer says he deserves to be an NBA All-Star.

Soaring Griffin taking Clippers with him (AP)
Blake Griffin was supposed to get this started last season; instead he broke his left kneecap in the final preseason game. He was worth the wait. Griffin's got the Los Angeles Clippers -- a punchline of a franchise for years -- actually winning, with nine consecutive victories at home heading into Wednesday night's game against Chicago at Staples Center.

Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose (ulcers) says he is feeling better
Derrick Rose believes the ulcer problem is behind him for the time being.



Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah has his cast taken off
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is getting the cast taken off his right hand on Monday, and he'll begin traveling with the team.

Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah has his cast taken off
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah is getting the cast taken off his right hand on Monday, and he'll begin traveling with the team.

Bulls improve to 11-0 within division (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Omer Asik blocks a shot by Indiana Pacers ' Jeff Foster during the second quarter in an NBA basketball game in Chicago on Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011.

Carlos Boozer had 24 points and 10 rebounds, Derrick Rose scored 20 points despite two stomach ulcers and the Chicago Bulls beat the struggling Indiana Pacers 110-89 on Saturday night. Luol Deng added 19 points after scoring 26 the previous night against Orlando, and the Bulls improved to 11-0 against Central teams while remaining the lone unbeaten team against its own division.




Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose participates in shootaround
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose participated in the morning shootaround Friday morning, despite being diagnosed with two stomach ulcers.

Rose, Bulls defeat Magic despite Howard's 40
Derrick Rose scored 22 points despite two painful stomach ulcers, Luol Deng added 26, and the Chicago Bulls beat Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic 99-90 on Friday night.

Rose scores 22 despite ulcers, Bulls win (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 28: Carlos Boozer #5 of the Chicago Bulls looks to pass under pressure from Hedo Turkoglu #15 of the Orlando Magic at the United Center on January 28, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Magic 99-90. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 22 points despite two painful stomach ulcers, Luol Deng added 26, and the Chicago Bulls beat Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic 99-90 on Friday night. The Bulls won for the ninth time in 11 games even though Howard scored a season-high 40 points, taking the lead with a big third quarter and then holding off a late push by Orlando.




Bulls' Rose playing against Orlando
All-Star point guard Derrick Rose will play for the Chicago Bulls against the Orlando Magic on Friday despite two painful stomach ulcers.

Struggling Rose leads Bulls over Magic
Derrick Rose scored 22 points despite two painful stomach ulcers, Luol Deng added 26, and the Chicago Bulls beat Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic 99-90 on Friday night.

Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose has a stomach ulcers
Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose missed practice again Thursday, and coach Tom Thibodeau said he has a stomach ulcers.

Bulls assign rookie Johnson to D-League (AP)
The Chicago Bulls have assigned forward James Johnson to the Iowa Energy of the NBA Development League. Taken with the 16th pick in the 2009 draft out of Wake Forest, Johnson has appeared in 12 games this season and averaged 3.5 points. He appeared in 65 games as a rookie and averaged 3.9 points. The Bulls announced the move on Thursday.

LeBron, Kobe headline All-Star starters
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat are headed to the All-Star game together, and Derrick Rose gave the Chicago Bulls their first starter since Michael Jordan.

NBA All-Star Game: Starters announced for Eastern, Western conferences
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade are headed to the All-Star Game together, and Derrick Rose gave the Chicago Bulls their first starter since Michael Jordan.

All-Star starters: James, Wade, Rose (AP)
LeBron James and Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat are headed to the All-Star game together, and Derrick Rose gave the Chicago Bulls their first starter since Michael Jordan. They will be joined in the Eastern Conference starting lineup by Amare Stoudemire, who will become the first New York Knicks player to start in nearly two decades, and Orlando center Dwight Howard, the leading vote-getter in the...

Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose misses practice because of flu
The Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose missed practice on Wednesday because of flu-like symptoms.

Chicago Bulls' Joakim Noah has pins removed; return uncertain
The Chicago Bulls' Joakim Noah had pin removed from his thumb, but his return is uncertain.

Report: Boozer dated reality TV actress
Michelle Money -- one of 10 remaining women vying for the heart of Brad Womack on the ABC TV show "The Bachelor," claims Chicago Bulls star Carlos Boozer lied and said he was single when she had a relationship with him, Life & Style magazine reported Wednesday.

Kurt Thomas scores 22, helps Bulls win (AP)

Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose , left, passes the balls over Milwaukee Bucks guard Keyon Dooling during the second half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Jan. 24, 2011, in Chicago. The Bulls won 92-83.

Kurt Thomas scored 22 points and Derrick Rose added 21 points and 10 assists to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 92-83 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday night. Thomas scored his most points since Jan. 25, 2005. He also had nine rebounds and five assists in the win. Chris Douglas-Roberts scored a season-high 30 points, one shy of his career high, for the Bucks.




Chris Bosh of Miami Heat day to day, 'making progress' with ankle
Chris Bosh sat out practice on Monday, as he continues to rehabilitate his left ankle, which he sprained Jan. 15 in Chicago.

Walker's robber sentenced to 13 years
A Chicago man has been sentenced to 13 years in prison after pleading guilty to robbing former NBA star Antoine Walker at gunpoint at his home in 2007.

Bulls hand Cavaliers 16th straight loss (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers ' Daniel Gibson , right, drives past the Chicago Bulls ' Kurt Thomas in the fourth quarter in an NBA basketball game in Chicago on Saturday, Jan. 22,  2011.

Derrick Rose scored 24 points, leading the Chicago Bulls to a 92-79 victory Saturday night that extended the Cleveland Cavaliers' losing streak to 16 games. Cleveland (8-35) has also lost 20 straight on the road, one shy of the franchise record. The Cavs last won away from Quicken Loans Arena on Nov.




Chicago man who robbed Antoine Walker gets 13-year sentence
A Chicago man has been sentenced to 13 years in prison after pleading guilty to robbing former NBA star Antoine Walker at gunpoint at his home in 2007.

Man who robbed Antoine Walker sentenced (AP)
A Chicago man has been sentenced to 13 years in prison after pleading guilty to robbing former NBA star Antoine Walker at gunpoint at his home in 2007. Demorris Hill was tried late last year for the robbery, but the jury wasn't able to reach a unanimous verdict. Prosecutors had said they planned to retry him before he pleaded guilty Friday to one count of home invasion.

Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer on target to make return Saturday
Carlos Boozer says he is on target to return from an ankle sprain on Saturday.

Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer is questionable vs. the Dallas Mavericks
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer will be a game-time decision to play against the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night.

Rose helps Boozer-less Bulls beat Mavs (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Taj Gibson , left, works against Dallas Mavericks ' Tyson Chandler during the first quarter of the Bulls' 82-77 win in an NBA basketball game in Chicago on Thursday Jan. 20, 2011.

Derrick Rose scored 26 points as the Chicago Bulls beat the Dallas Mavericks 82-77 on Thursday night. Rose shot 9 for 28 from the field, shouldering a larger-than-usual share of the offensive load in the absence of injured forward Carlos Boozer. Dirk Nowitzki scored 19 points to lead Dallas, while Jason Terry, Tyson Chandler and DeShawn Stevenson added 12 points apiece.




Bulls rely on Rose to get by Mavs
Derrick Rose scored 26 points as the Chicago Bulls beat the Dallas Mavericks 82-77 on Thursday night.

Rose steps up with Boozer out as Bulls top Mavs
Derrick Rose scored 26 points as the Chicago Bulls beat the Dallas Mavericks 82-77 on Thursday night.

Bobcats hand Bulls rare home loss (AP)

Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose misses a shot at the buzzer in an NBA basketball game against the Charlotte Bobcats on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011, in Chicago. Rose scored 33 points, but the Bobcats won 83-82.

D.J. Augustin scored 15 points, Gerald Wallace had 13 points and 16 rebounds and the Charlotte Bobcats held off the Chicago Bulls 83-82 on Tuesday night. Boris Diaw and Stephen Jackson added 12 points apiece to help the Bobcats snap a three-game losing streak, with their last win coming at home against the Bulls last Wednesday.




Rose not enough as Bobcats squeak past Bulls
D.J. Augustin scored 15 points, Gerald Wallace had 13 points and 16 rebounds and the Charlotte Bobcats held off the Chicago Bulls 83-82 on Tuesday night.

Source: Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer to miss another game
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer will miss a second consecutive game with an ankle injury, according to a source.

James plans animated series for kids (AP)

The Miami Heat 's LeBron James did not suit up for the game against the Chicago Bulls for an NBA basketball game due to an injury on Saturday Jan. 15,  2011, in Chicago.

LeBron James is going back to cartoons. The NBA's two-time reigning MVP and Spring Hill Productions formally announced plans Tuesday for a 10-episode digital series to be distributed online and slated to launch early this year. The idea for the show is based somewhat on a recent series of Nike television commercials that showed James, a forward for the Miami Heat, as several different animated...




Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer is day to day
Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said forward Carlos Boozer is day-to-day with a sprained ankle, and it's not known whether he'll play Tuesday against the Charlotte Bobcats.

Rose racks up triple-double to fuel Bulls
The Chicago Bulls were missing two key players, so Derrick Rose picked up the slack with his first career triple-double.

Rose lifts Bulls in return to Memphis (AP)
The Chicago Bulls were missing two key players, so Derrick Rose picked up the slack with his first career triple-double. Returning to the city where he starred at the University of Memphis, Rose scored 22 points, handed out 12 assists and grabbed 10 rebounds in a 96-84 win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday.

Rose's triple-double powers Bulls past Grizzlies
Derrick Rose returned to Memphis with his first career triple-double, and Luol Deng scored 28 points to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 96-84 win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday.

Rose lifts Bulls in return to Memphis (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Kyle Korver , left,  drives to the basket by Memphis Grizzlies ' Rudy Gay , right, during the first half of a NBA basketball game in Memphis, Tenn., Monday, Jan. 17, 2011.

Derrick Rose returned to Memphis with his first career triple-double, and Luol Deng scored 28 points to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 96-84 win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday. Rose, coming back to the city where he starred at the University of Memphis, scored 22 points, handed out 12 assists and grabbed 10 rebounds.




Chicago Bulls' Tom Thibodeau defends Omer Asik from Chris Bosh's critical comments
Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau defended Omer Asik from Chris Bosh's critical comments.

Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer (ankle) to miss Monday's game vs. Memphis Grizzlies
The Chicago Bulls' Carlos Boozer will miss Monday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies because of a sprained ankle.

LeBron James of Miami Heat doubtful at Chicago Bulls with sprained ankle
LeBron James did not take part in the Miami Heat's shootaround at the United Center on Saturday morning and was considered doubtful with a sprained left ankle for their night game against the Bulls.

Heat try to rebound vs. Rose, Bulls in Chicago
Heat try to rebound vs. Rose, Bulls in Chicago.

With James out, Bulls run Heat skid to 3 (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 15:  Derrick Rose #1 of the Chicago Bulls gets off a shot as he is fouled by Joel Anthony #50 of the Miami Heat at the United Center on January 15, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)

Derrick Rose scored 34 points and Kyle Korver hit a crucial 3-pointer with 25 seconds left Saturday night as the Chicago Bulls withstood a stellar performance by Dwyane Wade to beat the Miami Heat 99-96. Miami, playing without injured LeBron James for a second straight game, lost its third straight despite a 33-point performance from Chicago native Wade, who had 12 in the fourth quarter, including...




LeBron ruled out for game against Bulls
LeBron James was out of the Miami Heat's lineup against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night, missing his second straight game because of a sprained left ankle.

Rose helps Bulls hold off reeling Heat
Derrick Rose scored 34 points and Kyle Korver hit a crucial 3-pointer with 25 seconds left Saturday night as the Chicago Bulls withstood a stellar performance by Dwyane Wade to beat the Miami Heat 99-96.

Rose scores 29 as Bulls cruise past Pacers
Derrick Rose had 29 points and a season-high 10 rebounds to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Indiana Pacers 99-86 Friday night.

Rose's 29 points, 10 rebounds lead Bulls (AP)

Chicago Bulls guard Keith Bogans , left, is fouled by Indiana Pacers forward Tyler Hansbrough during the second half an NBA basketball game in Indianapolis, Friday, Jan. 14, 2011. The Bulls won 99-86.

Derrick Rose had 29 points and a season-high 10 rebounds to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Indiana Pacers 99-86 Friday night. Rose, who scored 20 points in the second half, also had five assists. Luol Deng had 17 points and five assists, Carlos Boozer scored 14 points and Kurt Thomas had a season-high 18 rebounds.




Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose looks forward to facing Miami Heat
Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose is looking forward to the matchup with the Heat on Saturday night.

Amare Stoudemire, Derrick Rose surge in NBA All-Star voting
The Knicks' Amare Stoudemire and Chicago's Derrick Rose have surged into position to start in the NBA All-Star game through the fourth return of fan voting.

Bobcats rock Bulls behind Augustin's 22 points
D.J. Augustin had 22 points and 12 assists, hit four decisive free throws down the stretch and outplayed Derrick Rose in the Charlotte Bobcats' 96-91 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Monday night.

Rose can't match D.J. as Bobcats roll
D.J. Augustin had 22 points and 12 assists, hit four decisive free throws down the stretch and outplayed Derrick Rose in the Charlotte Bobcats' 96-91 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night.

Jordan watches Bobcats defeat Bulls (AP)

CHARLOTTE, NC - JANUARY 12:  Tyrus Thomas # of the Charlotte Bobcats reacts after a play during their game against the Chicago Bulls at Time Warner Cable Arena on January 12, 2011 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

D.J. Augustin had 22 points and 12 assists, hit four decisive free throws down the stretch and outplayed Derrick Rose in the Charlotte Bobcats' 96-91 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night. The Bulls, off to their best start since their last title under Michael Jordan in 1998, couldn't keep it going with Jordan sitting courtside.




Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose is NBA MVP candidate, says coach Tom Thibodeau
Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau says Derrick Rose is a legitimate NBA MVP candidate.

Rose, Boozer combine for 56 in Bulls win (AP)

Detroit Pistons ' Chris Wilcox , left, grabs a rebound away from Chicago Bulls ' Carlos Boozer during the first half of a NBA basketball game Monday, Jan. 10, 2011 in Chicago.

Derrick Rose scored 29 points and Carlos Boozer added 27 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 95-82 win over the Detroit Pistons on Monday night. Luol Deng added 17 points and eight rebounds for the Bulls, who have won seven straight home games. The Bulls erased Detroit's 12-point halftime lead midway through the third quarter behind Boozer.




Bulls top Pistons to remain hot at home
Derrick Rose scored 29 points and Carlos Boozer added 27 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 95-82 win over the Detroit Pistons on Monday night.

Bulls F Deng votes in Sudan election (AP)
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng (LOO'-ul dehng) arrived to a hero's welcome at a polling place in Chicago where southern Sudanese are voting on their country's future. Deng drew cheers from fellow Sudanese on Sunday when he briefly draped himself with the Southern Sudan flag. The basketball player has been encouraging people to vote for the referendum on Southern Sudan independence and...

Rose's 36 help Bulls cool off Celtics (AP)

Boston Celtics ' Rajon Rondo , foreground, battles Chicago Bulls ' Taj Gibson for a loose ball in the first quarter during a NBA basketball game in Chicago, Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011.

Derrick Rose scored 36 points, Carlos Boozer added 22 points and 10 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls cooled off the Boston Celtics with a 90-79 victory on Saturday night. Rose set career highs for free throws made and attempted with a 15-for-19 performance from the line, driving by Rajon Rondo over and over again before usually drawing contact from one or more of Boston's big men.




Rose, Boozer power Bulls past Celtics
Derrick Rose scored 36 points, Carlos Boozer added 22 points and 10 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls cooled off the Boston Celtics with a 90-79 victory on Saturday night.

Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer is ready to move on from flap with coach Tom Thibodeau
Chicago Bulls Carlos Boozer has no lingering resentment over coach Tom Thibodeau benching him in the fourth quarter of Wednesday's loss to the New Jersey Nets.

Sixers ride 3rd-quarter surge to win vs. Bulls
Jodie Meeks scored 24 points, Lou Williams had 20, and the Philadelphia 76ers avenged a 45-point loss to Chicago with a 105-99 victory over the Bulls on Friday night.

Sixers avenge 45-point loss to Bulls (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Luol Deng reacts after a foul in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Philadelphia 76ers , Friday, Jan. 7, 2011, in Philadelphia. Philadelphia won 105-99.

Jodie Meeks scored 24 points, Lou Williams had 20, and the Philadelphia 76ers avenged a 45-point loss to Chicago with a 105-99 victory over the Bulls on Friday night. Jrue Holiday added 19 for the 76ers, who lost 121-76 on Dec. 21 in Chicago. The Sixers believe they're a playoff team and have the young nucleus to get there.




Nets snap 5-game skid, end Bulls' 5-win streak
Sasha Vujacic made the tiebreaking basket with 5.3 seconds left, and the New Jersey Nets snapped their five-game losing streak with a 96-94 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night.

Nets end Bulls' run at 5 on late basket (AP)

New Jersey Nets ' Devin Harris , bottom, and Chicago Bulls ' C.J. Watson compete for the ball during the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011 in Newark, N.J. Harris scored 18 points in the Nets 96-94 victory.

Sasha Vujacic made the tiebreaking basket with 5.3 seconds left, and the New Jersey Nets snapped their five-game losing streak with a 96-94 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night. With the game tied at 94, Nets guard Devin Harris appeared to be attempting a lob pass to center Brook Lopez, but the ball was knocked to Vujacic, who put it in for his 13th point.




New Jersey Nets' Derrick Favors to get first NBA start against Chicago Bulls
New Jersey Nets rookie power forward Derrick Favors will make his first NBA start on Wednesday night against the Chicago Bulls, head coach Avery Johnson announced during his pre-game press conference with reporters.

Bulls continue to roll with rout against Raptors
Luol Deng scored 24 points and the surging Chicago Bulls beat the Raptors 111-91 on Tuesday night.



Bulls win for 14th time in 16 games (AP)
Luol Deng scored 24 points and the surging Chicago Bulls beat the Toronto Raptors 111-91 on Tuesday night. Derrick Rose added 19 points and six assists for the Bulls, who have won five straight and 14 of 16. Reserve Taj Gibson had 16 points and 14 rebounds, helping Chicago to a 44-33 edge on the glass and a 58-38 advantage in points in the paint.

Bargnani, Bayless return for Raptors (AP)
Italy's Andrea Bargnani is back in the Toronto Raptors' lineup. Bargnani started Tuesday against the Chicago Bulls after missing four games with sore left calf. Toronto coach Jay Triano says he will monitor Bargnani's minutes. The 7-foot (2.13-meter) Bargnani is averaging 21.2 points. Before Tuesday's game, the Raptors had lost 11 of 14.

Chicago Bulls' Joakim Noah working out, gets cast off next week
Bulls center Joakim Noah has already started working out and will have the cast taken off his right hand next week.

Rose, Bulls hold off short-handed Cavs (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers ' J.J. Hickson reacts after missing a basket during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls in Chicago, Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011. The Bulls won 100-91.

Derrick Rose had 28 points and 11 assists and the Chicago Bulls won for the 13th time in 15 games, beating the struggling, short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers 100-91 on Saturday night. Sluggish in a win over New Jersey the previous day, the Bulls trailed by 10 against a team that was missing three of its best players.




Rose powers surging Bulls to victory
Derrick Rose had 28 points and 11 assists and the Chicago Bulls won for the 13th time in 15 games, beating the struggling, short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers 100-91 on Saturday night.

Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose says he 'wants to be MVP' this year
Bulls point guard Derrick Rose believes he is a legitimate contender for the MVP award.



Surging Bulls pull away late, beat Nets (AP)

New Jersey Nets ' Sasha Vujacic bites his jersey after missing a basket during the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls in Chicago, Friday, Dec. 31, 2010. The Bulls won 90-81.

Carlos Boozer scored 20 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, and the Chicago Bulls won for the 12th time in 14 games, pulling away late to beat the New Jersey Nets 90-81 on Friday afternoon. Luol Deng and Derrick Rose scored 19 apiece, and the Bulls made enough shots down the stretch after struggling from the field for much of the game.




Ben Uzoh plays 16 minutes - Ben Uzoh (G) New Jersey Nets
Nets guard Ben Uzoh played 16 minutes off the bench in Friday's loss to Chicago, getting two rebounds and two assists but failing to score.

New Jersey Nets without Jordan Farmar, Troy Murphy vs. Chicago Bulls
The Nets held backup point guard Jordan Farmar out of Friday's game against the Bulls because of a bruised right knee.

Bulls continue their run behind Boozer and Deng
Carlos Boozer had 24 points and nine rebounds, Luol Deng scored 24 points, and the Chicago Bulls beat the Milwaukee Bucks 90-77 on Tuesday night.

Rose keys pivotal run as Bulls top Bucks (AP)

CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 28: Carlos Boozer #5 of the Chicago Bulls moves against (L-R) Andrew Bogut #6, Ersan Ilyasova #7 and Keyon Dooling #55 of the Milwaukee Bucks at the United Center on December 28, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Bucks 90-77. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Carlos Boozer had 24 points and nine rebounds, Luol Deng scored 24 points, and the Chicago Bulls beat the Milwaukee Bucks 90-77 on Tuesday night. Derrick Rose had 18 points, 12 assists and six assists for Chicago, who has won 11 of its last 13 games. John Salmons scored 18 points for the Bucks, who shot a season-low 32.1 percent.




Earl Boykins of Milwaukee Bucks suspended after contact with official
Milwaukee Bucks point guard Earl Boykins has been suspended for Tuesday night's game against the Chicago Bulls for making "intentional contact with a game official," according to the league.

Bulls tip Pistons in OT behind Boozer's 31 points
Carlos Boozer had 31 points and 11 rebounds, and Derrick Rose added 23 points and a career-high 12 rebounds to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Detroit Pistons 95-92 in overtime Sunday night.

Boozer leads Bulls past Pistons in OT (AP)

Chicago Bulls ' Keith Bogans , right, drives to the basket against Detroit Pistons ' Ben Gordon in the first half of an NBA basketball game Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010, in Auburn Hills, Mich.

Carlos Boozer had 31 points and 11 rebounds, and Derrick Rose added 23 points and a career-high 12 rebounds to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Detroit Pistons 95-92 in overtime Sunday night. Rose also had eight assists. Tayshaun Prince led Detroit with 17 points. Detroit sent the game to overtime when Charlie Villanueva tipped home a missed shot with 0.6 seconds left.




Boozer, Rose power Bulls in OT
Carlos Boozer had 31 points and 11 rebounds, and Derrick Rose added 23 points and a career-high 12 rebounds to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Detroit Pistons 95-92 in overtime Sunday night.

Derrick Rose said he has no problems with Amare Stoudemire despite heated moment in Chicago Bulls-New York Knicks game
Derrick Rose said he has no problems with Knicks forward Amare Stoudemire.

Stoudemire, Knicks tame Bulls in 4th quarter
Amare Stoudemire and Raymond Felton each scored 20 points, and the New York Knicks limited the Chicago Bulls to two baskets in the first 10 minutes of the fourth quarter, pulling away for a 103-95 victory Saturday.

Knicks shut down Bulls in 4th to win (AP)

New York Knicks forward Amare Stoudemire (1) defends against Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer (5) in the fourth quarter of the Knicks 103-95 victory over the Bulls in their NBA basketball game at Madison Square Garden  in New York, Saturday, Dec. 25, 2010.

Amare Stoudemire and Raymond Felton each scored 20 points, and the New York Knicks limited the Chicago Bulls to two baskets in the first 10 minutes of the fourth quarter, pulling away for a 103-95 victory Saturday. Wilson Chandler and Danilo Gallinari added 15 apiece for the Knicks, the NBA's highest-scoring team but 28th in defense.




Knicks step up on D to down Bulls
Amare Stoudemire and Raymond Felton each scored 20 points, and the New York Knicks limited the Chicago Bulls to two baskets in the first 10 minutes of the fourth quarter, pulling away for a 103-95 victory Saturday.

Kurt Thomas to start again for Bulls on Saturday, and possibly for a while longer
Kurt Thomas will start again for the Bulls on Saturday, and possibly for a while longer.

Ex-Cavs coach Brown becomes ESPN analyst (AP)
Former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown has been hired by ESPN as an analyst. Brown, who was fired in June after the Cavs lost to Boston in the Eastern Conference semifinals, will begin his TV stint on Christmas Day for the New York-Chicago telecast on ESPN 3D, the ne