PODCAST · sports
By The Horns: A Chicago Bulls Show
by Chicago Sports Network
Welcome to By The Horns, a podcast covering the Chicago Bulls. Hosted by Bulls Countdown Live host Camron Smith and CHSN Bulls Insider K.C. Johnson. We’ll bring you the latest updates along with guest interviews and breaking news. Episodes are released every Tuesday and Thursday.
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839
NBA Free Agency: Bulls sign Norman Powell, resign Zach Collins & more
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the start of NBA free agency, including the Bulls' additions of Norman Powell and Nic Claxton, Zach Collins' return, and how each player fits into Chicago's roster heading into next season. They also discuss what the Bulls could do with their final roster spot and react to former Bulls Nikola Vučević and Javon Carter signing with the Orlando Magic.
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838
EXCLUSIVE Interview with first-round draft picks Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain
The newest members of the Chicago Bulls, Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain, join Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson on the By The Horns podcast. The two rookies discuss family, college, the culture they hope to build with the Bulls, and life off the court and wrap things up with a fun round of rapid-fire questions.
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837
REACTION: Bulls select Caleb Wilson & Dailyn Swain in 1st round of NBA Draft
In this week’s episode of By the Horns, K.C. Johnson and Cam Smith break down the Chicago Bulls’ first night of the NBA Draft. The duo discusses the selections of Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain, why both fit the defensive-minded culture Bryson Graham is building, and how each prospect could impact the Bulls' future. Plus, they dive into Wilson’s confidence and Swain’s versatile skill set.
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836
EXCLUSIVE interview with Bulls head coach Tiago Splitter
Cam Smith and K.C. sit down with the 25th head coach in Chicago Bulls history, Tiago Splitter to discuss his remarkable journey from leaving Brazil for Spain as a teenager to becoming an NBA champion and head coach. Splitter reflects on his playing career, including the 2014 NBA Finals, and his transition into coaching, while sharing what he learned from mentors like Gregg Popovich and his time leading Portland to a playoff berth. He also opens up about his vision for the Bulls, building relationships with players and growing up a Bulls fan.
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835
NBA Draft Preview with ESPN's Jeremy Woo
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson sit down with ESPN draft analyst Jeremy Woo for a deep dive into the 2026 NBA Draft. They discuss whether AJ Dybantsa is a lock for the No. 1 pick, break down the top prospects and potential sleepers, debate what the Bulls should do with the No. 4 and No. 15 selections, and examine how players like Darryn Peterson and Cam Boozer could fit at the next level. Woo also shares insight into Chicago's options in the 2nd round and offers a behind-the-scenes look at what the college basketball season is like for one of the sport's leading draft experts.
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834
REACTION: Bulls hire Tiago Splitter as new head coach
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the hire of new Bulls head coach Tiago Splitter. They talk about his journey from NBA champion to NBA head coach after leading the Trail Blazers to a playoff berth last season. They discuss his coaching style, what this means for the Bulls both on and off the court, and much more!
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833
Tribute to Stacey King: Scott Williams talks friendship, bench mob & more
K.C. Johnson and Cam Smith open the show by honoring Stacey King, reflecting on the recent CHSN special and the statement released by Stacey’s family. The two share what Stacey meant to them personally, with Cam recalling memorable stories from working alongside a broadcaster he grew up rooting for. Later, former Bulls forward and Stacey’s longtime teammate Scott Williams joins the podcast to celebrate Stacey’s life and legacy. Scott shares stories from their days on the Bulls, including intense bench-vs.-starter battles, the competitive culture created by players like Michael Jordan and company, memories from the 1992 championship run, Stacey’s relationship with Phil Jackson, and the heartbreak he felt when Stacey was traded.
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832
Offseason MAILBAG & NBA Finals Predictions
K.C. Johnson gives Cam Smith his due after Cam correctly predicted the NBA Finals matchup, setting the stage for a breakdown of how the two teams stack up against each other. The guys compare strengths and weaknesses, identify their X-factors, and explain why players like Victor Wembanyama and Jalen Brunson could ultimately determine who lifts the trophy. Later, K.C. and Cam make their championship picks and break down the matchups that could swing the series. They also bring out the "By The Horns Hotline," answering questions from Bulls fans about the coaching search, draft possibilities, roster decisions involving Ayo Dosunmu, organizational changes under Bryson Graham, and potential trade scenarios.
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831
Kendall Gill unpacks his draft ideas and makes his NBA Finals prediction
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson welcome Bulls pre and postgame analyst and former Bull Kendall Gill to talk the future of the Bulls and the current NBA landscape. Kendall shares why he believes newly hired EVP Bryson Graham can help reshape the franchise, reflects on his own experiences in Charlotte and how they compare to the Bulls’ current situation, and explains why Chicago still has major work to do despite the pieces already on the roster. The guys also get into the Bulls’ options with the No. 4 overall pick, potential draft fits, and Kendall’s surprising thoughts on a possible move for a former NBA all-star. The conversation also shifts around the league as Kendall gives his conference finals and NBA Finals predictions, discusses the rise of the New York Knicks, and talks about what it would mean for Jalen Brunson to bring New York a championship. They dive into Victor Wembanyama’s future with the San Antonio Spurs, whether he is already becoming the face of the league, and how the Spurs’ organizational culture continues to stand out across the NBA. Plus, Kendall wraps things up with stories from his offseason life away from basketball, including his passion for gardening.
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830
Bulls Officially Add Stephen Mervis, Acie Law IV to Front Office & Conference Finals are underway
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson unpack some more offseason moves for the Chicago Bulls after the organization officially added Stephen Mervis and Acie Law IV to the front office. The conversation dives into Law’s return to the franchise, his basketball background, and the Chicago sports ties that make the hire even more intriguing. From there, the spotlight swings toward the Bulls’ coaching search, as Cam and K.C. sort through the growing list of candidates that includes Wes Unseld Jr., David Sweeney, Micah Nori, and James Borrego. Then the energy shifts to a wild start to the NBA’s conference finals, beginning with the Spurs and Thunder delivering an instant classic in Game 1 of the West Finals. Cam and K.C. break down Victor Wembanyama’s jaw-dropping performance, debate whether his deep late-game three could become one of the defining shots of this NBA era, and discuss what lessons the Bulls can take from San Antonio’s rapid rise. The episode also includes Eastern Conference Finals predictions, draft talk surrounding potential risers outside the top four, K.C.’s insight into how league circles view the Bulls’ draft position, and why Cam believes Caleb Wilson may ultimately have the highest ceiling in the entire class.
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829
2026 NBA Draft Combine & Reaction to the Bulls’ Draft Lottery Results
Ruthie Polinsky fills in for Cam Smith alongside K.C. Johnson as the two break down a pivotal stretch for the Chicago Bulls following the NBA Draft Lottery. They react to the Bulls landing the 4th overall pick, share the latest on Josh Giddey’s injury status, and discuss where the organization’s coaching search stands as the offseason begins to ramp up. The episode also includes takeaways from the NBA Draft Combine, including notable press conference moments and early impressions of several intriguing draft prospects. K.C. and Ruthie dive deeper into several names connected to the Bulls, including Chicago-linked star Cam Boozer and North Carolina big man Caleb Wilson, while also taking a quick look at elite talents AJ Dybantsa and Chicago native Darryn Peterson. Later, the conversation shifts toward potential options at No. 15 overall, including high-upside Kentucky forward Jayden Quaintance and towering Michigan center Aday Mara, as the crew evaluates the different directions Chicago could take in this year’s draft.
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828
Exclusive interview with Bulls EVP of Basketball Operations Bryson Graham | By The Horns
On the latest episode of By The Horns, K.C. and Cam are joined by new Bulls Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Bryson Graham. Graham opens up about his upbringing, how the Bulls inspired him to as a young kid and what traits he brings as the new leader of the organization. Cam and K.C. pull back the curtain and connect with Bryson on a deeper level beyond X's and O's. 0:00-1:08 - Intro 1:09-4:00 - Graham's upbringing and family influence 4:01-5:44 - Graham's college career and perspective change 5:45-12:00 - How Graham went from intern to executive 12:01-17:34 - Graham's leadership style 17:35-21:45 - The influence of Michael Jordan on Graham 21:46-23:01 - How the 90's Bulls defined greatness for Graham 23:02-25:38 - What about the Bulls opportunity appealed to Graham 25:39- 27:22 - Rapid fire questions 27:23-27:49 - Outro
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827
Bulls Search Continues & Most Intriguing First-Round Series
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down where the Bulls’ front office search stands, diving into the process of hiring a new executive vice president while sizing up potential candidates. They shift to the NBA Playoffs, sharing their early takeaways and highlighting the first-round matchups that have grabbed their attention most. Cam spotlights the Pistons-Magic series, while K.C. weighs in on why the opening round often delivers more intrigue than the Finals. The guys also dig into performances from Cade Cunningham, Ayo Dosunmu and the intensity spilling over in the Timberwolves-Nuggets series. They close by discussing Dosunmu’s upcoming free agency, plus LeBron James continuing to defy time, including a memorable playoff moment alongside his son.
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826
REACTION to Billy Donovan stepping down as Bulls head coach
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into the news of Billy Donovan resigning as head coach of the Chicago Bulls, unpacking what it means for the franchise moving forward. As the conversation unfolds, they break down Donovan’s farewell statement, highlighting the key acknowledgments to players, staff, and Bulls Nation, while reflecting on the defining moments of his tenure in Chicago. From there, the focus shifts toward what’s next, as K.C. explains why predicting the Bulls’ next head coach isn’t so straightforward and the factors that could shape the search. The episode closes by looking ahead to the 2026–2027 season, exploring the identity this team might take on and how this transition could redefine the direction of the organization.
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825
Bulls 2025-2026 Season Recap
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson share the latest on where things stand between the Bulls’ front office and Billy Donovan while also breaking down the team’s odds of landing the top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. They discuss the impact of Portland clinching a postseason spot, which secures an additional first-round pick for Chicago and gives the Bulls added flexibility heading into the draft. The conversation then turns to our season recap with a deep dive into Josh Giddey’s campaign and growing leadership, along with Matas Buzelis’ progress and offseason mindset. They also highlight Tre Jones’ emergence as a reliable contributor and examine Isaac Okoro’s underrated season, including the offensive growth that caught Billy Donovan’s attention.
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824
REACTION: Michael Reinsdorf addresses media
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson react to a major shift inside the Chicago Bulls organization following the departures of Vice President Arturas Karnisovas and General Manager Marc Eversley. The guys break down what led to the decision, what it signals about the franchise’s direction, and why this moment could define the next era of Bulls basketball. They also dive into the press conference from Bulls president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf, unpacking his comments on the search for the team’s next VP and GM, the qualities the organization is prioritizing, and how extensive the process could be. Plus, where does head coach Billy Donovan fit into all of this? The conversation explores his future in Chicago and how the next front office hire could shape the team’s identity moving forward.
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823
Bulls take on MVP Candidate Wembanyama and Final Four Preview
Plus, it’s all about March Madness as the guys take a look at the Final Four picture, including Cam’s experience at the United Center for Michigan vs. Tennessee in the Elite Eight. Cam and KC make their picks for who’s headed to the championship—and who’s ultimately cutting down the nets.
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822
Clutch Buzelis, Durant Still Making It Look Easy
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ 2–2 homestand, highlighting Matas Buzelis’ clutch late-game impact and what stood out down the stretch. They also dive into Kevin Durant’s performance against Chicago, unpacking what still makes his scoring feel nearly impossible to defend, while debuting “K.C.’s Notebook” to spotlight Durant’s professionalism and lasting impact on the game, both on and off the court. The conversation shifts to Josh Giddey’s playmaking surge, including a career-high 19 assists, and how his pass-first style continues to evolve with the roster. They also discuss Leonard Miller’s strong showing, the emergence of young contributors within Billy Donovan’s system, and preview the Bulls’ upcoming road trip. Plus, a look around the NBA with potential expansion news and “Cam’s Court” tackles the ongoing debate surrounding the league’s 65-game rule.
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821
Buzelis Brings the Edge, Giddey Keeps Filling the Stat Sheet
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down Matas Buzelis’ continued rise after another great performance against the Grizzlies, including a career best third quarter. They also dive into the on-court back-and-forth between Buzelis and Luka Dončić and what it says about Matas' growing confidence and edge. The conversation expands to Josh Giddey’s red-hot stretch and evolving mindset while also highlighting Buzelis joining Victor Wembanyama in rare statistical company. Plus, Taj Gibson makes another appearance at the UC and the first-ever edition of a new segment, “Cam’s Court," where Cam gives his two cents on the Bam Adebayo 83-point game.
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820
Collin Sexton's offensive surge, Matas Buzelis builds upon strong sophomore season
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Chicago Bulls’ loss to the Sacramento Kings, where Collin Sexton poured in 28 points as Chicago struggled out of the gate. The guys discuss Sexton’s potential long-term fit with the team and highlight Matas Buzelis continuing to make an impact defensively with an elite block game, fueling the conversation about his underrated sophomore season and untapped ceiling. Later, they react to Josh Giddey returning to the floor and recording his ninth triple-double of the season before looking ahead to the rest of the Bulls’ West Coast trip, including a tough back-to-back in Los Angeles. Cam and K.C. also go around the NBA to talk about Jayson Tatum’s return and how it affects the Eastern Conference race, while Cam weighs in on the recent Thunder–Nuggets matchup he’s calling the “game of the year.”
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819
Bulls snap losing streak, Josh Giddey continues to climb the record books
The Bulls use a stunning 27-0 surge against the Milwaukee Bucks to end an 11-game skid. Cam and K.C. break down how that momentum shift unfolded, and Josh Giddey records his first triple-double since December. From there, the focus turns to what’s ahead, including a challenging West Coast swing with late-night matchups against the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers. The conversation also highlights rookie Matas Buzelis and his steady presence all season, not just being durable but also embracing the learning curve and staying composed through the inevitable ups and downs.
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818
Matas nets career-high, Coby White returns to United Center
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ frustrating 10-game losing streak and what’s fueling the slide, from late-game execution to lineup adjustments. The guys also discuss the opportunity emerging from the skid, including the valuable minutes Rob Dillingham is logging and what that experience could mean for his long-term development in Chicago. They also dive into Matas Buzelis’ breakout 32-point performance against the Charlotte Hornets and what it says about his ceiling moving forward. Plus, former Bull Coby White makes his return to the United Center in a Hornets uniform for the first time since the trade, adding another emotional layer to a pivotal stretch of the season.
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817
The takeaways from the new-look Bulls, Matas showcases in rising stars
As the first half winds down, Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson evaluate how the revamped Bulls roster is starting to take shape. With Anfernee Simons, Rob Dillingham, and Collin Sexton now in the mix, the focus shifts to late-game struggles, locker room accountability, and whether this group can finally close out tight contests. The conversation turns to which newcomer has captured their attention most, with Cam and K.C. each making their case and sharing a fun nugget about who Simons believes is the greatest of all time. They also preview Matas Buzelis showcase in the Rising Stars Game before looking ahead to the post–All-Star stretch.
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816
NBA Trade Deadline Recap
The NBA Trade Deadline takes center stage as the crew breaks down where the Bulls stand coming out of a busy day and why the roster is still a work in progress. K.C. Johnson offers his perspective on what he called the "wildest deadline" he’s ever covered, setting the stage for how Chicago’s moves fit into the league-wide chaos. From there, the focus shifts to the newcomers, evaluating how players like Jaden Ivey, Anfernee Simons, Collin Sexton, Rob Dillingham and others could shape both the Bulls’ present and long-term direction. The episode wraps up with a look back at the Bulls tenures of Nikola Vučević, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, Javon Carter and Kevin Huerter, reflecting on their impact and what their departures mean for the franchise going forward.
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815
Rose's Jersey Retirement Recap & Buzelis Named to Rising Stars Team
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson open the episode by reflecting on an emotional night at the United Center as the Derrick Rose jersey retirement takes center stage. They break down what the moment meant for Rose, the franchise, and the city, before diving into the on-court action that followed as the Chicago Bulls edged the Boston Celtics on Kevin Huerter’s game-winning shot. From there, the guys recap a tough loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, sparked by a big first half from LeBron James and a double-double from Luka Dončić. They also highlight Coby White who is playing some of his best basketball of the season, Josh Giddey finding his rhythm since returning from injury, and Matas Buzelis earning another Rising Stars nod while opting out of the dunk contest. The episode wraps with a look ahead to a packed stretch of games, including multiple matchups with the Miami Heat and a visit from the Indiana Pacers, plus a debate on whether the Bulls should keep leaning into their effective double-big lineup.
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814
Honoring Derrick Rose: From No. 1 Pick to the Rafters
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson take a reflective look at the legacy of Derrick Rose, ahead of his jersey retirement, revisiting the moments that defined his journey from a Chicago prodigy to one of the most electrifying players of his era. The guys walk through his rise with the Chicago Bulls, from being selected No. 1 overall to the peak of his prime, while also acknowledging the challenges and lost time that shaped his career. The conversation expands beyond the court, touching on Rose’s early roots, his influence on basketball culture, and his impact in Chicago after his playing days, including his continued efforts to give back to the city. They also look ahead to the jersey retirement night against the Boston Celtics, and which familiar Bulls faces are expected to be in attendance for the momentous occasion.
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813
Vucevic’s Game-Winner Lifts Bulls Past Jazz
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ gritty win over Utah, punctuated by Nikola Vucevic's game-winner. The guys examine Billy Donovan’s rotation choices and discuss how Jalen Smith continues to carve out a meaningful role. The conversation also highlights Dalen Terry’s two-way spark, why Coby White is still searching for his offensive rhythm, and how it all fits into a demanding stretch of games ahead. To wrap it up, Cam and K.C. look ahead to a home-and-home with Brooklyn.
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812
Matas Buzelis' Sophomore Spark, Coby White’s Injury Challenges | By The Horns
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson take a closer look at the Bulls’ recent back-to-back games, breaking down what stood out from those matchups against the Hornets and Celtics. The conversation then turns to Coby White and how he continues to fight through his calf injury, before diving into Matas Buzelis’ continued emergence. Cam and K.C. also share a lighter moment from K.C.’s live TV countdown on-court collision. Plus, a look at the Bulls’ decision to sign Yuki Kawamura to a two-way contract and how it fits into the team’s broader plans.
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811
Giannis’ Dunk, More Bulls Injuries
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into a tough stretch for the Bulls, starting with Saturday night’s loss to the Bucks and the challenges that came with it. They discuss the impact of injuries, including Zach Collins, and dive into standout performances from Anthony Edwards and Giannis Antetokounmpo, with a closer look at Giannis’ dominant showing against Chicago. The conversation continues with Giannis’ late windmill dunk that sparked a postgame scuffle and a debate over whether it crossed the NBA’s unwritten rules. Cam and K.C. also recap Monday night’s loss to the Timberwolves, examine the injury concerns surrounding Coby White and Josh Giddey, and reflect on their own personal injury histories to put the latest developments into perspective.
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810
Buzelis, Bulls are Finding Their Groove
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ strong recent stretch, winning four of their last five and starting to look more settled as the roster gets healthier. They dive into how having all the bigs available has opened up more lineup and rotation flexibility, and what that means for Billy Donovan moving forward. The guys also discuss Matas Buzelis’ recent performances and why it feels like he may be turning a corner—easing some of the offensive pressure on Josh Giddey and Coby White in the process. Plus, a look ahead to a challenging six-game homestand against quality opponents, and K.C. wraps things up with a great story about how Rajon Rondo helped make him a better interviewer.
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809
Bulls Fire on All Cylinders Against Cavaliers
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down arguably one of the Bulls’ most complete performances of the season, a win over the Cavaliers that marked Chicago’s largest margin of victory. They dive into Josh Giddey’s night—tying a career high in made threes while competing defensively to the final horn—and give love to Nikola Vučević for working his way out of a recent funk. The guys also discuss how a healthy Bulls roster could lead to a shift in the big-man rotation and how Chicago’s zone defense helped neutralize Cleveland on the boards. Plus, thoughts on two-game series as a playoff prep tool, Ayo Dosunmu’s nagging injuries and changing perspectives on the NBA Cup.
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808
Bulls building through adversity
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into the Bulls’ seven-game losing streak and the defensive issues that continue to haunt them. They dive into Billy Donovan’s postgame comments after another tough loss to the Warriors, assess the latest injury updates, and break down what Chicago’s depth looks like moving forward. They also look ahead to another great opportunity to bounce back with games against Charlotte and New Orleans as the Bulls search for a momentum shift.
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807
Bulls Trying to Turn the Tide Amid Losing Streak
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ latest setback in Orlando, extending the losing streak to four. They highlight Ayo Dosunmu’s shooting surge, Josh Giddey’s offseason work paying off with a more confident jumper, and the defensive lapses that keep resurfacing—especially around rim protection. They also look back at Tre Jones’ matchup against his brother and look ahead to what Chicago must tighten up during the upcoming three-game homestand.
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806
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.
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805
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.
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804
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.
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803
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.
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802
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.
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801
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.
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800
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.
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799
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.
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798
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.
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797
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.
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796
Why the Bulls Think They’ll Surprise People
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down Bulls Media Day and the first days of camp. They discuss Coby White’s injury concerns, Josh Giddey’s fresh mindset, and Matas Buzelis’ bold goals. Also, Billy Donovan’s push for more defense and physicality heading into preseason.
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795
Over/Under: Setting Bulls Expectations for 2025-26
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into preseason over/unders for the Chicago Bulls as training camp approaches. From Vegas’ surprising 32.5 win total to Josh Giddey’s playmaking, Coby White’s scoring ceiling, Matas Buzelis’ next step, and Patrick Williams’ role, the guys debate what’s realistic, what’s hype, and where the Bulls can prove people wrong.
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794
4 Bulls with The Most to Prove in 2025-26
Cam Smith and KC Johnson pick three (four) Bulls with the most to prove in 2025-26, dive into Josh Giddey’s new role and contract context, debate Patrick Williams’ path to consistent impact, and weigh Ayo vs. Coby in a crowded guard room. Plus: thoughts on the Bulls’ Ring of Honor second class and what’s ahead for Media Day and camp.
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793
Bulls Lock In Josh Giddey — What Does It Mean for the Future?
Cam Smith and KC Johnson react to the Bulls and Josh Giddey agreeing to a four-year, $100M deal—and why he plans to sign it in person at the Advocate Center. They dig into Giddey’s post-All-Star surge, what’s sustainable vs. not, and how his role under Billy Donovan unlocked downhill aggression and better defense. Then: the ripple effects—what this number means for upcoming decisions on Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu, the Bulls’ potential 2026 cap flexibility, and how this young core shapes free-agent pitches. Plus, KC takes us inside Billy Donovan’s Hall of Fame weekend.
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792
Horace Grant & Bill Cartwright Reflect on MJ, the First 3-Peat, and Derrick Rose’s Legacy
On the latest By The Horns, Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson sit down with Horace Grant and Bill Cartwright — two essential pieces of the Chicago Bulls’ first three-peat. The legends reflect on their chemistry as frontcourt anchors, Michael Jordan’s intensity in practice, the grind of repeating as champions, and the confidence that came with having No. 23 and No. 33 leading the way. They also share candid memories of physicality in the ’90s, their thoughts on today’s NBA, and their appreciation for Derrick Rose as the Bulls prepare to retire his No. 1 jersey.
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791
Bulls Schedule Reaction: Tough Tests, Big Nights & Marquee Matchups
On the latest episode of By The Horns, Cam Smith and KC Johnson dive into the newly released 2025–26 Chicago Bulls schedule, breaking down the toughest stretches, must-watch matchups, and potential statement games. From the season-opening test against the Detroit Pistons to marquee battles with the Lakers, Knicks, and Magic, the duo analyzes how early challenges and key homestands could shape the Bulls’ playoff push.
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What the Bulls’ Fresh Faces Will Bring This Season
In this episode of By the Horns, Cam Smith and KC Johnson break down the Chicago Bulls’ newest faces as the team gears up for training camp. From defensive stopper Isaac Okoro to rookie forward Noa Essengue, they dive into how these players can impact the rotation and energize the team. The guys also discuss Lachlan Olbrich’s rugged style, Yuki Kawamura’s electric playmaking, and why Tre Jones’ poise makes him a critical piece for the Bulls’ guard depth. Get the full scoop on what to expect from the Bulls heading into the season.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to By The Horns, a podcast covering the Chicago Bulls. Hosted by Bulls Countdown Live host Camron Smith and CHSN Bulls Insider K.C. Johnson. We’ll bring you the latest updates along with guest interviews and breaking news. Episodes are released every Tuesday and Thursday.
HOSTED BY
Chicago Sports Network
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