"I thought we got tested and we responded well" - Billy Donovan on a tough two-night stretch for the Chicago Bulls

An NBA schedule is a marathon that seems to never end. Contrary to what some fans believe, there aren’t any nights off in this league. So, teams must show up and compete, whether you’re facing a powerhouse like the Boston Celtics or a minnow like the Charlotte Hornets.

The Chicago Bulls found themselves in that same predicament this past weekend as they faced off against the Golden State Warriors and the San Antonio Spurs in back-to-back games. Bulls coach Billy Donovan said the team responded well despite their adversities.

Came away 1-1

The Bulls found the Golden State Warriors rude guests on Friday night as they spoiled the Ring of Honor festivities by pulling off a 140-131 victory. The loss ended the Bulls’ three-game winning streak, and there was no rest for the weary as they immediately headed to San Antonio to face off against the Spurs on Saturday.

Although the Spurs did not field rookie sensation Victory Wembanyama, the Bulls still faced tough opposition from San Antonio, who rallied from a 16-point deficit to take a six-point lead in the fourth. The Bulls regained their composure and eventually nabbed a 122-116 win.

“I thought we got tested, and we responded well. Middle of that third quarter, up 16, a couple of turnovers, some bad possessions, gave up offensive rebounds, fouling,” Donovan said.

Well, that was a bit of a rollercoaster, no? pic.twitter.com/cN602aHCWS
— Bulls Talk (@NBCSBulls) January 14, 2024

Quick turnaround

It helps to have a short memory in the NBA, and the Bulls proved just that as they bounced back from a tough loss to Golden State to secure a win against the Spurs. This showcases the team's resilience and ability to regroup after setbacks quickly.

“We’ve got to get better, no question. But when you see what the guys went through physically, getting into the hotel, quick meeting before the game, having to muster up the emotional game yesterday with everything that's transpired with the Ring of Honor and just Golden State coming in. It was one of those things where you have to grind the game out,” Donovan shared.

“It wasn't going to be easy, and I just appreciate and respect the way they handled themselves in the fourth quarter, certainly. There's a lot of things we need to improve on, but when you get tested, you want to be able to respond and I thought we did coming out of last night's game.”

Should be angry after blowing that lead 🤬 pic.twitter.com/e5CkUyq2Nb
— Bulls Talk (@NBCSBulls) January 14, 2024