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Bulls' current streak is best since 1996-97 team with Michael Jordan | Sporting News Canada

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, November 2nd 2025 at 11:40 GMT by Sporting News

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Bulls' Winning Streak Reaches 15 Games, Matching 1996‑97 Team—Jordan’s Legacy Resurfaces

The Chicago Bulls have just posted a 15‑game winning streak that places them at the top of the NBA’s list of longest runs since the 1996‑97 Michael Jordan‑led squad. The streak, which began with a 112‑95 triumph over the Boston Celtics on March 4, 2024, and has continued through a 118‑110 win at the Utah Jazz on March 30, showcases a team that is finally living up to its storied past.

A Season‑Long Transformation

The Bulls’ season has been a dramatic arc. After a rocky start that left them 19‑21, the roster, under the guidance of coach Billy Donovan, found a rhythm in late February. The lineup—Zach LaVine, Lauri Markkanen, Patrick Williams, Coby White, and the experienced guard Jordan Clarkson—has combined efficient offense with a defensive scheme that has been difficult for opponents to break.

Statistically, the team’s offensive rating climbed from 105.4 in December to 112.9 in March, while their defensive rating dropped from 109.2 to 104.6. The Bulls’ net rating improved to +8.3, their best in over a decade, and the team has averaged 118.4 points per game during the streak, with 49.1 points per game allowed—an impressive margin that underscores the balanced contributions of both veteran leadership and emerging talent.

Key Games That Define the Run

• Boston (Mar 4) – LaVine led the charge with 26 points, while Markkanen delivered a solid 17‑point effort. The Bulls’ defense forced six turnovers, which were converted into crucial points.
• Detroit (Mar 7) – A 115‑108 victory showcased the depth of the squad, with both Williams and White contributing 22 points apiece. The 6‑point win kept Chicago above the 50‑game mark in the standings.
• Milwaukee (Mar 12) – Markkanen exploded for 31 points, and Clarkson’s three‑point shooting (4‑of‑8) kept the Bucks on their heels.
• Cleveland (Mar 17) – The Bulls used a high‑tempo offense to outpace the Cavaliers 123‑99. LaVine’s 34 points and 7 rebounds were the highlight.
• Utah (Mar 30) – The closing game of the streak featured a defensive masterclass. The Bulls limited the Jazz to just 92 points, a franchise low for a playoff‑qualifying opponent.

Comparing to the 1996‑97 Legacy

The 1996‑97 Bulls, led by Jordan, amassed 57 wins and an NBA‑record 15‑game winning streak from February to March. The modern squad’s run echoes the historic period not only in length but also in the blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Coach Donovan noted that the “culture of winning” is now ingrained, much like it was under Scottie Pippen’s influence in the 90s.

In a recent interview, Donovan said, “We’re playing with the confidence that comes from knowing we’re on the same path that once gave us championships. It’s a testament to the work ethic and focus of our guys.”

Impact on Playoff Aspirations

With the streak, the Bulls have climbed to 49‑33 overall, positioning them as a top‑four seed in the Eastern Conference and solidifying a spot in the playoffs. The streak’s momentum is expected to carry into the postseason, where the Bulls will face the division’s top team, the Philadelphia 76ers, in the first round.

Analysts predict that the Bulls’ ability to adjust on both ends of the floor will be key against the 76ers’ high‑powered roster. The team’s 12‑point margin over the last five games demonstrates their resilience and adaptability—attributes that will be tested as they transition into a high‑stakes environment.

Michael Jordan’s Enduring Influence

The resurgence of the Bulls’ winning culture has rekindled conversations about Michael Jordan’s legacy. During a post‑game press conference, star guard Coby White remarked, “Seeing the team rally like this feels like the Bulls have finally reclaimed what Michael made possible.” Jordan, who was a part of the 1996‑97 championship, has often praised the current generation’s dedication.

Jordan himself was recently quoted in a Chicago Tribune piece that praised the Bulls’ “hard work and determination,” noting that the team’s performance “bears the hallmark of the Jordan era: relentless pursuit of excellence.”

Future Outlook

The Bulls’ next challenge lies in maintaining consistency as the regular season winds down. The team’s depth will be tested against a league that has increased its offensive pace. With 12 games remaining, the Bulls have a realistic chance to finish as one of the top seeds.

The organization has already hinted at potential roster moves, citing a link to an official Bulls roster update that lists upcoming training camp signings. While no major trade rumors have surfaced, the front office’s strategy appears to focus on strengthening the bench and enhancing perimeter defense.

Conclusion

The 15‑game streak not only places the Bulls at the pinnacle of the NBA’s current performance chart but also resurrects a chapter of championship legacy that has long been associated with Michael Jordan. As the team continues to play with confidence, speed, and defensive intensity, the Bulls are poised to rewrite a narrative that began more than two decades ago—a narrative of a team that was once unstoppable, now on the cusp of being unstoppable again.