Chicago Bulls Defeat Phoenix Suns, 121-117, in Preseason Opener
The Chicago Bulls defeated the Phoenix Suns 124-117 in their 2026 preseason opener at the United Center. The game featured strong performances from rookies and marked the beginning of head coach Tiago Splitter's tenure.
Why it matters
Preseason games provide early insights into team dynamics and the development of new draft picks for the upcoming NBA season.
Chicago Bulls head coach Tiago Splitter speaks to the media following his team's 124-117 preseason win over the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026. (Gavin Dorsey/Roundtable Sports)
Chicago Bulls basketball is back at the United Center. The result may not have mattered as much as a regular season game, but Wednesday night's preseason opener was a strong start to the Tiago Splitter era in the Windy City.
Against a Phoenix Suns team that reached the playoffs last season as the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference, the Bulls won their first preseason game, 124-117.
Seven Bulls scored in double figures, led by 14 points apiece from Norman Powell and Matas Buzelis. Jalen Smith, Chicago's starter at center, had 13 points and eight rebounds. Josh Giddey scored seven points and dished out seven assists.
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