Kevin Huerter Buzzer Beater Lifts Bulls Past Celtics as Derrick Rose Jersey Retirement Caps Historic Night

Chicago — Kevin Huerter delivered a last second three pointer to lift the Chicago Bulls to a 114 to 111 win over the Boston Celtics on Saturday night, setting the stage for an emotional Derrick Rose jersey retirement at the United Center.

Huerter’s shot from the corner came with less than one second remaining and capped a dramatic finish against the Eastern Conference second place Celtics. The Bulls immediately called timeout after Jaylen Brown tied the game on a driving layup with 14 seconds left, and Chicago executed the final possession to perfection, freeing Huerter for the decisive look.

Coby White led Chicago with 22 points while knocking down five three pointers as the Bulls hit 21 shots from beyond the arc and extended their winning streak to four games. Nikola Vucevic added 16 points, while Jalen Smith and rookie Matas Buzelis each contributed 14 in a balanced offensive performance.

Huerter’s moment carried added significance. He arrived at the arena wearing a No. 1 jersey in honor of Rose, who became just the fifth player in franchise history to have his number retired. Rose now joins Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Jerry Sloan and Bob Love in the Bulls rafters, a rare distinction that reflects his lasting impact on the organization and the city.

Chicago controlled stretches of the second half but nearly saw the game slip away late. Leading 111 to 109, White missed a driving layup and Smith missed a follow attempt, allowing Brown to grab the rebound and score to tie the game. Boston had momentum before Huerter’s buzzer beating response.

Brown finished with a game high 33 points for Boston, continuing his strong scoring stretch. Anfernee Simons added 21 points, while Derrick White posted 15 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists as the Celtics saw their late rally fall short.

The victory further solidified Chicago’s recent surge and showcased the Bulls’ ability to close tight games against elite competition. Beating Boston on a night filled with emotion underscored the franchise’s connection between past and present, blending Rose’s legacy with a current roster finding momentum.

Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history, was honored following the game in front of a sold out crowd. His jersey retirement marked a full circle moment for the Chicago native, whose rise and perseverance defined an era of Bulls basketball and left a permanent imprint on the franchise.

Boston will look to rebound when it hosts Portland on Monday night as the Celtics continue their push near the top of the Eastern Conference standings.

Chicago’s next outing will aim to build on both the emotional lift and on court confidence gained from one of the most memorable nights at the United Center in recent years.