Bulls’ Strong Start Fades in Loss to Spurs as Wilson Exits Hurt

On November 12, Chicago surged to its best opening quarter of the season against San Antonio, scoring 41 points and taking a 70-56 halftime lead. The Bulls shot 17-for-20 in the first quarter and repeatedly attacked the basket despite facing Victor Wembanyama, one of the league’s top rim protectors.

The Spurs turned the game around after the break. Chicago committed eight turnovers in the third quarter and gave up repeated second chances, while San Antonio took a 90-89 lead into the final period. Wembanyama scored 32 points on 13-for-18 shooting, and the Spurs built a lead of as many as 15 in the fourth before winning 124-119.

Chicago’s Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis struggled with turnovers as San Antonio applied pressure. Buzelis gave the ball away five times in his final 13 minutes and 30 seconds on the floor. Coach Tiago Splitter emptied the bench late, and Noa Essengue’s minutes helped narrow the final margin.

Wilson left early in the fourth after reaching for the ball while defending Wembanyama. The Bulls ruled him out with a right-hand injury. He had been questionable because of hip tightness, but played about 15 minutes, scoring 15 points on 5-for-7 shooting and adding five rebounds and a steal. Splitter said the team expected to know more the next day.

Chicago, now 1-9, is scheduled to face the Atlanta Hawks on Friday. Wilson’s availability for that game could depend on what the team learns about his hand.