Bulls forward Matas Buzelis sets franchise record

Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis made franchise history during a 152-150 win against the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday.

Buzelis posted the most efficient 25+ point game in franchise history. He scored 28 points on 10/11 shooting, including a 7/8 performance from 3-point range. He also grabbed three rebounds and made two blocks in 29 minutes.

He's recorded back-to-back 20-point games for the first time this season. He had 24 points on 60% shooting in a 136-125 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday.

Buzelis has played in every game for the Bulls this season. He's averaging 14.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 28 games. 

He was drafted 11th overall by Chicago in the 2024 NBA Draft after spending one season in the NBA G-League Ignite program. He's been a consistent part of head coach Billy Donovan's rotation since joining the team.

Buzelis has seen an increased role in his second season, as he's averaging 28.1 minutes a game. He played in 80 games as a rookie, averaging 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and one assists in 18.9 minutes.

Chicago was on fire against the Hawks. The Bulls shot 53/92 (58%) from the field and 20/42 (48%) from deep. Five Bulls hit multiple threes against Atlanta, including Buzelis, Isaac Okoro, Coby White, Josh Giddey and Kevin Huerter. 

The Bulls have been playing better basketball lately. They've won four of their past five games after suffering a seven-game losing streak earlier this season. Chicago (13-15) is 10th in the Eastern Conference, one game behind the Atlanta Hawks (15-15).

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