CHICAGO -- With the president of the United States, Barack Obama, watching courtside, the Chicago Bulls and the visiting Cleveland Cavaliers put on show as the 2015-16 NBA season formally tipped-off on Tuesday night at the United Center.
In the end, the Bulls hung on to a 97-95 decision, thanks to two key defensive stops in the waning moments.
Nikola Mirotic, installed as a started under new head coach Fred Hoiberg, thrived in his new role under an offense-happy system by knocking down three triples en route to a 19-point, 9-rebound effort.
Derrick Rose made only 8-of-22 baskets but still managed 18 points with five assists. Jimmy Butler, who signed a massive $95 million contract extension last July, added 17 points and deflected the ball away in the Cavs' final possession.
Veteran Bulls center Pau Gasol struggled with a mere two points but he had six blocks, including one on LeBron James in the final 3.2 seconds of play.
LeBron James finished with 25 points for Cleveland while Kevin Love had 18 and eight rebounds. Mo Willians started in placed of the injured Kyrie Irving and scored 19 points and seven assists. Longtime veterans J.R. Smith and Richard Jefferson combined for 18 points.
LeBron James (top photo) and the Cleveland Cavaliers fell short against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center which teemed with Secret Service personnel as President Barack Obama watched from courtside. (photos by Homer Sayson@PhilBoxing)
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