Morning Box Score: Bulls Tie Series With Double-OT Thriller

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Apr 27, 2009 2:40PM

After two incredible games in Boston, the Bulls looked like they had returned to earth in game three when the Celtics handily defeated them upon their return to Chicago. After Sunday's epic battle at the United Center, which the Bulls won 121-118 in double overtime, they proved that they have the heart and hustle to go the distance with the reigning NBA champs. The Bulls and Celtics battled throughout the first half, heading to the locker room separated by a lone point. In the third, the Bulls jumped ahead by seven lead late before Boston turned the tables and closed out the period with a five point lead.

Derrick Rose almost put together a triple double on Sunday, grabbing 11 rebounds and dishing nine assists, while scoring 13 of his 23 point in the fourth quarter as he helped the Bulls claw back by driving the lane repeatedly. It looked like the Bulls might win in regulation until, just like game two, Ray Allen hit a clutch three-pointer for Boston, this one forcing overtime. In the first OT, Boston jumped out to a five point lead after making their first five shots, but Ben Gordon knocked down two free throws and hit a huge three-pointer all with less than 10 seconds left on the clock to send the game into a second extra period. In the second OT, a Ben Gordon jumper gave the Bulls an initial lead they never relinquished, although a late Paul Pierce three narrowed the lead to one point with under 20 seconds to play. Free throws by John Salmons sealed the deal and tied the series at 2 games apiece.

All seven players who entered the game for the Bulls scored in double figures, with Rose leading the way with his 23, Gordon scoring 22 and Salmons 20. Rose led the team in rebounds with 11, while Tyrus Thomas and Joakim Noah each grabbed 10. The Bulls as a team edged Boston on the boards and turned over the ball fewer times than the Celts -- turnovers were one of the biggest factors in the game 3 collapse. For those who missed the action, ESPN has granted the game "instant classic" status, and will re-air game four on ESPN Classic at 4 p.m. this afternoon. Game 5 takes place tomorro night in Boston.