Thunder Rout Bulls in Lopsided Victory

Oklahoma City Thunder cruise to 131-113 win over shorthanded Chicago Bulls

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:26pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Chicago Bulls 131-113 in a game that featured two very different halves. The Bulls came in shorthanded but looked sharp early, before the Thunder pulled away in the second half for a lopsided victory.

Why it matters

The Thunder's win over the Bulls continues Oklahoma City's strong start to the season, as they look to build on their success from last year. For the Bulls, the loss highlights their struggles with injuries and depth, which could pose challenges as they try to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference.

The details

The Bulls jumped out to an early lead, taking advantage of the Thunder's slow start. However, Oklahoma City turned things around in the second half, outscoring Chicago 72-48 over the final two quarters to cruise to the 18-point victory. The Thunder were led by their star duo of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey, who combined for 52 points, 16 rebounds and 12 assists.

  • The game was played on March 27, 2026.
  • The Thunder outscored the Bulls 72-48 in the second half.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Thunder's star guard and leading scorer, who had 28 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists in the win.

Josh Giddey

The Thunder's young rising star, who contributed 24 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists in the victory.

Chicago Bulls

The visiting team, who were shorthanded due to injuries but still managed to keep the game close in the first half.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The home team, who overcame a slow start to pull away in the second half for a comfortable win.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We knew they were going to come out aggressive, being a little shorthanded. But I'm proud of the way our guys responded in the second half and took control of the game.”

— Mark Daigneault, Thunder Head Coach

What’s next

The Thunder will look to build on this win as they continue their homestand, hosting the Miami Heat on March 29th. The Bulls will try to bounce back when they return home to face the Philadelphia 76ers on April 1st.

The takeaway

This game highlighted the Thunder's depth and ability to make adjustments, as they were able to overcome a slow start and pull away for a convincing victory over the shorthanded Bulls. For Oklahoma City, this win is another step in their progression as they aim to establish themselves as a top contender in the Western Conference.