The Chicago Bulls defeated the Atlanta Hawks 152-150 on Sunday in the highest-scoring game of the NBA season so far. Matas Buzelis led nine Bulls players in double figures with 28 points, including seven 3-pointers. Jalen Johnson scored 36 points for Atlanta, but Trae Young's missed jumper at the buzzer sealed the win for Chicago.
In a thrilling matchup at State Farm Arena in Atlanta on December 21, 2025, the Chicago Bulls secured a 152-150 victory over the Atlanta Hawks, marking the highest combined point total (302) in any NBA game this season. The Bulls, who improved to 13-15 with their third straight win, set season highs with 83 points in the first half and 152 overall, surpassing their previous high from a 150-147 double-overtime loss to Utah on November 16.
Matas Buzelis was the standout for Chicago, scoring 28 points on 10-of-11 shooting, including a career-high seven 3-pointers in eight attempts. Coby White contributed 21 points despite being questionable with a sore left ankle, while Josh Giddey added 19 points, nine rebounds, and 12 assists. Nine Bulls players reached double figures, showcasing their balanced attack in a game where both teams combined for 43 made 3-pointers (Bulls 20-of-42, Hawks 23-of-47).
The Hawks, falling to 15-15 after their third consecutive loss and seven defeats in nine games, were led by Jalen Johnson's 36 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists. Trae Young, returning for his second start in three games after missing 21 due to a right MCL sprain, posted a season-high 35 points and nine assists but missed a potential game-tying jumper with 4.2 seconds left following Buzelis's free throw that gave Chicago a 151-150 lead. Onyeka Okongwu added 23 points, and Vit Krejci scored 20.
Atlanta trailed 83-73 at halftime but mounted a comeback, tying the game at 102 in the third quarter behind Johnson's hot shooting. The Bulls held firm in the fourth, with Buzelis's clutch 3-pointer putting them up 150-147 with 22.8 seconds remaining. Coach Quin Snyder noted Young's ongoing acclimation process, limiting him from back-to-backs. The Hawks were also without Kristaps Porzingis (illness, sixth straight game) and announced season-ending surgery for two-way forward Eli Ndiaye due to a torn labrum sustained in the G League on December 9.
This win positions the Bulls for a rematch in Atlanta on Tuesday, highlighting their improved form amid a high-octane offensive battle.
