By The Horns: A Chicago Bulls Show

Bulls back to the drawing board after loss in New Orleans

Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson are back at it on the By The Horns podcast after a rollercoaster stretch for the Bulls. They break down what went wrong in New Orleans during the 143–130 loss and revisit Chicago’s close call against the Wizards, highlighting the defensive issues that continue to surface.
They also dive into Billy Donovan’s lineup change against the Pelicans that involved sitting Matas Buzelis to open the half, a Zach Collins injury update from K.C., and why Ayo Dosunmu’s strong start to the season has been a major bright spot. Plus, they look ahead to a crucial opportunity for the Bulls to flip the script against a pair of sub-.500 opponents in the Hornets and Pacers.

Bulls Bounce Back with Big Win in Denver 130-127

Cam Smith and KC Johnson are back on By The Horns after a busy back-to-back for the Bulls. They break down the team’s response from a tough loss in Utah to a strong win over Denver, and highlight the key bench contributors making an impact — including Ayo Dosunmu, Dalen Terry, and Jevon Carter’s sharp shooting performance against the Nuggets.
They also look ahead to a challenging three-games-in-four-nights stretch and check in on Coby White’s progress as he works back into game shape.

Neil Funk on His Journey to the Ring of Honor

K.C. Johnson is joined by longtime Bulls voice and 2025 Ring of Honor inductee Neil Funk. Neil talks about getting the call, going in alongside former players and colleagues, and reflects on his years covering the Bulls. They discuss travel on the road during the Jordan era and working alongside partners like John Paxson and Stacey King. He also shares stories about life on the road, his path through Philly and Kansas City, and what broadcasting in Chicago meant to him.

What’s Behind the Bulls’ Recent Late-Game Struggles?

Cam Smith and KC Johnson break down what’s behind the team’s three straight losses to Milwaukee, Cleveland, and San Antonio. They discuss late-game execution and finding a consistent closer. They talk Matas Buzelis’ defensive learning curve, Billy Donovan’s take on the offense, and Jalen Smith’s strong play off the bench. Plus, how Chicago has handled one of the league’s toughest early schedules.

Bulls Erase 24-Point Deficit vs 76ers

Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down how Chicago overcame a 24-point deficit in a statement win vs the 76ers. We discuss Josh Giddey’s back-to-back triple-doubles, Nikola Vucevic’s defense, and a second-half shift that held Philly to just 36 points. They also share postgame locker room reactions, what this says about the Bulls’ identity, and how Billy Donovan’s group is buying into ego-less basketball. Plus, updates on Coby White’s ramp-up, Ayo Dosunmu’s status, and a look ahead to the Bulls’ first back-to-back against the Bucks and Cavaliers.

What’s Behind the Bulls’ Best Start in Years?

Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down how Chicago’s defense, depth, and buy-in have fueled the perfect opening stretch. From Ayo Dosunmu’s clutch shooting to Tre Jones’ poise and Vooch’s vintage play, the guys explain why Billy Donovan’s system is working and how the team’s trust and sacrifice are setting the tone early. Plus, thoughts on Zach LaVine’s return to the UC and a preview of Bulls-Kings as Chicago looks to stay unbeaten.

What we learned in Bulls' season-opening win over Pistons

The Bulls open the 2025–26 season with a win at the United Center! Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down how Chicago held off Detroit 115–111. Led by Nikola Vucevic’s 28-point, 14-rebound night, Josh Giddey’s 19 points and 11 assists, and Ayo Dosunmu’s lockdown defense off the bench. We talk Vooch’s veteran dominance, Buzelis’ first big dunk moment, Billy Donovan’s late-game strategy, and what to expect next as the Bulls head to Orlando for Game 2.

Chicago Bulls 2025-26 Season Preview

The Bulls are back, and the 2025–26 season tips off with plenty of storylines. Cam Smith, Kendall Gill, and K.C. Johnson set the stage on the Bulls Season Preview Show.
From Josh Giddey’s new contract and breakout expectations to Coby White’s injury timeline, the crew breaks down what’s next for Chicago’s young core. Ayo Dosunmu’s strong preseason has him poised for a bigger role, while rookie Matas Buzelis looks ready to make a leap of his own.
They also discuss Isaac Okoro’s arrival, the push for tougher defense, and how injuries to Kobe and Zach Collins will impact the early rotation. Plus, Josh Giddey sits down for an exclusive one-on-one, sharing what his offseason taught him and why he believes this Bulls team can surprise people this year.

Buzelis and Ayo Hope to Give Bulls a Faster Start

On the latest episode of By The Horns - Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down Matas Buzelis’ on-court confidence, Ayo Dosunmu’s pace and decision-making, and how Chicago should handle Coby White’s ramp-up ahead of opening night. We sort through Billy Donovan’s possible rotation and what Patrick Williams needs to do to stay consistent. Plus: what to watch for in the preseason finale vs. Minnesota.

Bulls Preseason Game 1: Three Standouts, Big Questions

Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down Chicago’s preseason opener in Cleveland with a closer look at Matas Buzelis and Ayo Dosunmu, two players setting the tone early for this team’s new season. From Matas’ confident, physical approach to Ayo’s calm two-way impact, the guys discuss what their performances reveal about the Bulls’ identity, rotation battles, and early-season direction.