​The Bulls opened their 2026 NBA Summer League slate with a memorable performance against the Memphis Grizzlies, ultimately dropping a tight 97-96 decision on Friday night. Chicago rolled out a promising starting five for the debut in Las Vegas: Dailyn Swain, Jaylin Sellers, Noa Essengue, Caleb Wilson, and Tobe Awaka. All eyes were on Caleb Wilson, the Bulls’ fourth pick in the draft, who stepped into the spotlight with a clear mission: win. Wilson logged 14 minutes in the first half and poured in 14 points, matching the energy of the arena as the action got underway.
From the opening tip-off, the energy was palpable at the Thomas and Mack Center, with Bulls supporters sprinkled throughout the stands. Bulls head coach Tiago Splitter did an excellent job orchestrating a steady rotation of the young squad, ensuring many players earned meaningful minutes in their first Summer League game. Even with the bright lights on, the Bulls had esteemed observers courtside—Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey—as well as Benny the Bull, the beloved team mascot, adding to the showcase atmosphere.
The Bulls finished the first quarter with 17 points, while the Grizzlies led 23-17, and Memphis added 28 more in the second period. By halftime, Chicago trailed by six, largely due to a strong opening burst from Cameron Boozer of the Grizzlies. The deficit did not derail the Bulls, who reemerged with increased intensity in the third and fourth quarters.
Caleb Wilson continued to lead the way, tallying 14 points by halftime, while Jaylin Sellers contributed eight points. Noa Essengue, returning to action after missing most of the 2025-2026 season with a shoulder injury, was back on the floor and making his presence felt. Essengue’s impact was already clear early on: entering the half, he had three rebounds and one block, signaling his return to form and the rhythm of competitive play.
Essengue’s return was a notable storyline, and the 6-foot-11 forward demonstrated poise and versatility during his 29 minutes. He finished with five rebounds and four blocks, signaling his potential as a defensive anchor and a second-chance presence for the Bulls. His return also brought a sense of solidity to Chicago’s frontcourt as the team worked to build momentum in the second half.
In the third quarter, Chicago chipped away at the deficit with timely, efficient three-pointers from Wilson, narrowing the margin to 79-68 as the frame progressed. The Bulls began to click more cohesively, building chemistry with each possession and displaying a growing comfort level on the court. Wilson, who led the team in minutes early on, remained an active force for 25 minutes, while Sellers and Swain logged 22 minutes each, helping to drive the Bulls’ late push.
The fourth quarter became the game’s physical high point, with both teams locking in on the interior and contesting every drive and rebound. Chicago’s defense pinned the Grizzlies away from the paint and applied pressure, while the Bulls continued to attack with purpose. Wilson’s performance remained at the center of Chicago’s offense, underscoring the impact of their top pick’s pro-ready skill set in his first Las Vegas appearance.
Wilson’s all-around impact was evident in the final box score: a remarkable 35 points in 33 minutes, underscoring his offensive repertoire and ability to create look-after-look in a high-stakes Summer League environment. His scoring burst showcased his scoring versatility and finishing strength, and his willingness to take and make big shots in crucial moments was a bright sign for the Bulls’ developmental arc.
As the game wound down, the Bulls remained within striking distance, tightening the game in the late stages. A late-game rally culminated in a potential game-winning moment, with Wilson driving to the basket and delivering a buzzer-beater attempt that, while not going in, illustrated Chicago’s fight and resilience until the final horn. The Bulls’ effort, energy, and execution in the second half were still commendable, even as the scoreboard showed a one-point loss.
Caleb Wilson’s standout debut, paired with the return of Noa Essengue and the developing chemistry among Swain, Sellers, and Awaka, suggested a solid foundation for Chicago to build on as Summer League play continues. The team demonstrated efficient ball movement, careful decision-making, and aggressive defense, all of which painted a promising picture for the Bulls as they progressed through the Las Vegas slate. In defeat, Chicago displayed a compelling mix of youth, talent, and competitive spirit that should give fans optimism about the team’s trajectory heading into the next phase of summer competition.