Cavaliers Remain Undefeated with Narrow Win Over Bulls
On Monday night in Chicago, the Cavaliers secured their 12th consecutive win of the season, edging out the Bulls 119-113. This victory places the Cavaliers among the select few teams in NBA history to start a season with such an impressive win streak.
This marks the first time a team has achieved a 12-0 start since the Golden State Warriors set an astounding record of 24 straight wins in the 2015-16 season, which they concluded with a historic 73-9 overall record.
Star player Donovan Mitchell was instrumental in the Cavs’ success, scoring a season-high 36 points. Post-game, he expressed pride in being part of this achievement. “I never take moments like this for granted. We’re winning in different ways—whether it’s leading big or coming back from behind. It’s a team effort, and it feels great,” Mitchell said.
The Bulls kept the game competitive, leading at various points. They held a narrow edge at halftime despite Mitchell’s strong first-half performance, which included 25 points. Chicago’s momentum swung with a nine-point advantage in the third quarter.
However, Cleveland’s bench players stepped up, including Ty Jerome, who contributed 12 points and six assists in just 21 minutes, helping the team to regain control of the game. Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson recognized the need to give his starters a breather to maintain energy levels.
Jerome highlighted the importance of team depth, stating, “It shows the trust we have in everyone. Depth is crucial in a long NBA season.”
Historically, five of the last seven teams that began with a 12-0 record advanced to the NBA Finals. Atkinson emphasized that this Cavaliers squad is focused and determined, carrying a collective chip on their shoulders that drives their performance. “We have a greater level of focus and detail, which has helped us reach 12-0,” he noted.
This remarkable start comes during Atkinson’s first season as head coach. He attributed the Cavs’ early success to the existing chemistry among players like Mitchell, Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley, who are in their third season together.
Mobley underlined Atkinson’s effective coaching, saying, “He did a great job of incorporating everyone. We all understood the defensive strategy and the offensive systems he wanted to implement, and it just clicked.”
Looking ahead, the Cavaliers will play against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday, followed by home games against the Bulls and the Charlotte Hornets later in the week. While players are encouraged to celebrate their strong start, Mitchell stressed the need for consistency as the season progresses.
“We’re playing well, and the vibes are good. But we need to keep this momentum,” he said, reminding his teammates to stay humble while enjoying their early success. “The real challenge will be maintaining this level through the season.”
