Chicago welcomed the Sacramento Kings to the United Center on Sunday, January 12, 2025, and though the Bulls pushed, the Kings edged out a 124-119 win. De’Aaron Fox scored 26 points and pulled down nine rebounds, while Domantas Sabonis added 22 points, 15 rebounds, and 8 assists to anchor Sacramento’s balanced attack. For Chicago, Zach LaVine led all scorers with 36 points and 10 rebounds, securing his sixth straight game scoring 30 or more.
The night carried emotional weight because it marked the return of DeMar DeRozan to his former home court. He received a loud standing ovation from Bulls faithful, who watched a video tribute on the jumbotron celebrating his years in Chicago. DeRozan’s presence was felt especially in the fourth quarter, when he made a key pull-up jump shot that helped keep Sacramento’s margin intact. Meanwhile, Lonzo Ball made his first start in almost three years, pouring in 15 points on 5 of 8 three-point shooting over 26 minutes.
Back in the locker room, Lonzo Ball spoke about his physical state and the journey back. “I feel fine. I would feel a lot better if we got to win, but physically I’m fine. I feel good playing this game,” he said. He also underscored that this season is still an experiment in rediscovery: “This is the first year back, there’s no evidence what we’re supposed to be doing. We’re having constant communication with our doctors. We’re trying to build up my minutes.”
Despite the loss, Chicago’s performance had highlights — LaVine’s streak, Ball’s return, and the emotional resonance of DeRozan’s homecoming. The Kings stretched their winning streak to seven and handed the Bulls a reminder: in close games, execution and composure during late stretches remain the difference makers.
