Bulls 125-117 Hawks: Chicago’s fourth-quarter surge seals United Center win

The Chicago Bulls used a late fourth-quarter run to defeat the Atlanta Hawks 125-117 on November 14, 2026, at the United Center. In a game that featured plenty of pace and shot-making, Chicago found the decisive stretch on both ends of the floor, turning a close contest into a hard-fought home victory.

Atlanta’s offense was dangerous throughout, with Trae Young creating opportunities for himself and his teammates. But Chicago’s balance, rebounding, and composure in the final minutes proved to be the difference in a game that remained competitive until the closing stretch.

Match overview

The Bulls held a narrow 61-58 lead at halftime after a high-scoring first half. Atlanta responded in the third quarter, using Young’s playmaking and Jalen Johnson’s energy to take control for stretches. The Hawks entered the fourth quarter with momentum, but Chicago answered with a determined run that shifted the game back in its favor.

Chicago outscored Atlanta 37-25 in the final period, capitalizing on timely three-point shooting and second-chance points. The Bulls also tightened their defense when it mattered most, forcing Atlanta into difficult shots and limiting clean looks from beyond the arc.

Key moments

• Chicago built an early lead behind efficient half-court execution and offensive rebounding.
• Atlanta surged in the third quarter, with Trae Young finding open shooters and creating driving lanes.
• The Bulls responded with a decisive fourth-quarter run, highlighted by back-to-back three-pointers.
• Chicago sealed the win at the free-throw line in the final minute.

Tactical story

Chicago’s offense relied on ball movement and interior pressure. Nikola Vucevic’s presence in the paint drew attention, opening space for guards to attack closeouts and create open perimeter looks. Josh Giddey’s size and vision also helped Chicago keep the offense organized, particularly when Atlanta tried to speed up the game.

Atlanta’s pick-and-roll attack generated good looks for much of the night, but the Hawks struggled to get stops during Chicago’s decisive fourth-quarter stretch. The Bulls won the rebounding battle and made the extra pass when Atlanta’s defense rotated, which proved crucial in a game decided by small margins.

Standout players

Coby White led Chicago with 28 points, while Josh Giddey stuffed the stat sheet with 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists. Nikola Vucevic added 20 points and 13 rebounds, giving the Bulls a reliable interior anchor. Patrick Williams also contributed 16 points and several important defensive plays.

Atlanta was led by Trae Young, who finished with 32 points and 10 assists. Jalen Johnson added 25 points and 9 rebounds, and Onyeka Okongwu chipped in with 16 points. Despite strong individual performances, the Hawks could not match Chicago’s execution in the final six minutes.

Season impact

The victory gives Chicago a valuable home win in the Eastern Conference race and reinforces the team’s depth. The Bulls showed they can close games with balanced scoring rather than relying on a single option. Atlanta, meanwhile, will focus on tightening its late-game defense after another competitive performance. The result adds another layer to the early-season standings picture in the East.