Bulls Bruise Boston 97-81…Magic Number Down To 1
© Suburban Journals of Chicago photo by Mark Rotor

by Mark Rotor

March 7^th, 2011

Prior to the game on Thursday, terms like “must win” or “statement game” were being bantered about by the media. With Chicago in 1^st place in the Eastern Conference division leading Boston by 3 games with 5 to play the Celtics were in the hot seat and needed and win if they were going to gain ground on the Bulls. A statement was made but it wasn’t what Boston fans were hoping for as Chicago out hustled, out rebounded, out shot and in general terms, outplayed the Celtics as they were pummeled 97-81. With the victory, Chicago’s magic number to secure 1^st place in the division is now one. Any win by Chicago or a loss by Boston gives the Bulls 1^st place seeding in the Eastern Conference playoff series assuring them of home court advantage.

Boston Takes A Lashing

After the game Celtic forward Kevin Garnett said, “We got our (butt) kicked tonight. “I can’t recall that happening in a while." Chicago dominated Boston throughout most of the 2nd half leading by 5 points 48-43 at half time. In the first two minutes of the 3^rd quarter, Boston did retake the lead for a brief period 49-48 however Chicago recovered the lead later in the 3^rd quarter and never looked back.

Chicago went on a 10 nothing run led by Derrick Rose scoring 4 of his 30 points.

Rose had a performance worthy of a MVP beating Rajon Rondo and Kevin Garnett double team routinely, leading to lay-ups or open perimeter shorts by his teammates. Rose scored 3’s , jump shots and hit “circus’ shots banking of the glass. “This (game) meant a lot because you're going against a team you could see in the playoffs said,” Rose.

Chicago Native, Head Coach Doc Rivers – Home Is
Not So Sweet.
© Suburban Journals of Chicago photo by Mark Rotor

Boston Raises The White Flag

The Celtics were ice cold missing open shots early and shooting only 38.4% from 2 point range and an anemic 2 of 10 from the 3 point line. Garnett was 3-9 for 10 points and Ray Allan was only 3-11 shooting a surprisingly 0-3 from 3 pointer range. “We just have to, put this one behind us and move forward said,” Celtic forward Jeff Green. “We have to find a way to compete out there.”

Big Lou For Two – 23 Points
© Suburban Journals of Chicago photo by Mark Rotor

Luol Came Up Big

Chicago dominated leading in rebounds 44-35, points in paint 44-22, assist 21-14 and steels 9-3. Luol Deng primarily defended Paul Pierce who was held to only 15 points. Deng was also offensive force 3-6 from 3 point range and 9-18 for total of 23 points. “Luol is kicking (butt), he’s playing at a real high level and he had a huge second half for us” Noah said. Carlos Boozer was the 3^rd Bulls in double figures scoring 14 points and led them with 12 rebounds. “We’re coming out there and giving every thing we got,” said Noah.”

Bust of Scottie Pippen Forever On Display At the
United Center.
© Suburban Journals of Chicago photo by Mark Rotor

Scottie Pippen Gets His Due

At half time a tribute was paid to six time NBA Champion Scottie Pippen as the Chicago Bulls unveiled a bronze bust of Bulls Ambassador and Hall of Famer. Neil Funk, Bulls TV play-by-play announcer was the MC of the ceremony that included a video tribute. Following the unveiling Pippen made the following remarks.

“So what do you guys think?... To the fans hear you always treated me with respect I appreciate it…I must say without the support you have given me none of this would be possible.

Pippen & Family On Hand For Unveiling.
© Suburban Journals of Chicago photo by Mark Rotor

Benny, Part Of The Extended Pippen Family
© Suburban Journals of Chicago photo by Mark Rotor

“I want to especially thank John Paxton, who was here when I came here, and is still here, and the way things are going, it looks like he's going to be here for a while, thank you John."

"From the bottom of my heart and my family, I want to thank the Bulls organization and Jerry Reinsdorf for this, it is truly special."

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