Matas Buzelis Shines Bright with 19 Points in Bulls Thrilling Preseason Win

In the inaugural game of the NBA Preseason 2025, Matas Buzelis made a significant impact for the Chicago Bulls, scoring a game-high 19 points in their narrow 118-117 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena.

The dynamic Lithuanian combo forward demonstrated an aggressive and effective approach to kick off his second season in the league on Tuesday, shooting 7 for 11 from the field and contributing eight rebounds, one block, and one assist in just over 18 minutes of play. His fellow starter, Montenegrin Nikola Vucevic, played 19 minutes, recording three points and six rebounds. Off the bench, French player Noa Essengue added eight points and five rebounds in 13 minutes.

For the Cavaliers, Dutch player Tristan Enaruna was on the court for the entire fourth quarter, scoring three points and grabbing one rebound, while French teammate Killian Hayes contributed two points, two assists, and one steal. After this initial exhibition match in Cleveland, the Bulls and Cavaliers are scheduled to face off again at Chicago’s United Center on Thursday.

In another closely contested preseason matchup at Target Center, the Indiana Pacers edged out the Minnesota Timberwolves in overtime, finishing 135-134. Starting for the Timberwolves, Rudy Gobert recorded five points, four rebounds, one block, and one steal, while fellow French player Joan Beringer scored four points, and Italian Donte DiVincenzo chipped in with three points.

The series of preseason games will continue until next Friday, leading up to the Regular Season, which kicks off on October 21. The Bulls will face the Detroit Pistons at home, the Cavaliers will go up against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, and the Timberwolves will meet the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on October 22.

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