The Bulls Extinguish the Heat, and Put an End to the Streak, 101-97

Lebron James and the Miami Heat had their eyes set on win number 28 as they traveled to the “Windy City” last night, to take on the Bulls. Although Chicago was without key players, Joakim Noah, Richard Hamilton and Marco Belinelli, the Bulls managed to beat the Heat, 101-97, ending their 27-game winning streak. The game was competitive and intense, even a bit physical. Lebron put on a playoff worthy performance as he scored 32 points, blocked 4 shots and grabbed 7 rebounds, but it wasn't enough. He even collected a flagrant foul after getting a bit frustrated towards the end of the game. For the rest of Miami’s Big Three, Dwayne Wade had 18 points and 7 rebounds and Chris Bosh with 21 points. Throughout the streak the Heat has been able to erase deficits, so when they were down 46-55 at the half, they were expected to go on a run as they have done in previous games. That wasn't the case last night.  Defending the ball was a big part of the game, and although Chicago’s line up didn't seem too intimidating, they managed to out-rebound the Heat 43-31. In addition to their great defense, every player that entered the game for the Bulls played with intensity, as the outscored the Heat 22-8 in second chance points. Luol Deng scored 28 points; Carlos Boozer had a double- double, 21 points and 17 boards. Jimmy Butler made a splash as he finished with 17 points and 5 assist, including a dunk on Chris Bosh. Nate Robinson was very productive off the bench, scoring 14 points including a clutch 3-pointer with a minute to go. This was a big victory for the short-handed Chicago Bulls. 

The Bulls not only snapped Miami's 27-game winning streak, they have also won 3 games in a row.With this win I'm sure the Bulls have found some confidence as they prepare themselves for the playoffs. After a few days off, Chicago will be in Dallas to face Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavericks. 

As for the Miami Heat, what they have done the last 27 games was phenomenal. Along with making history, with the second longest streak in the NBA, they are also the leagues best team on the road. They have nine games left before the playoffs, and they play against the Hornets in New Orleans tomorrow. Their final game of the season will be at home against...the Bulls. Will it be pay back or will Chicago cool them off again? Stay tuned. 

-@SarahTresChic15