
By The Horns: A Chicago Bulls Show
NBC Sports Chicago
Welcome to By The Horns, a podcast covering the Chicago Bulls. Hosted by Bulls Countdown Live host Camron Smith and CHSN Bulls Insider K.C. Johnson. We’ll bring you the latest updates along with guest interviews and breaking news. Episodes are released every Tuesday and Thursday.
Location:
United States
Genres:
Sports & Recreation Podcasts
Description:
Welcome to By The Horns, a podcast covering the Chicago Bulls. Hosted by Bulls Countdown Live host Camron Smith and CHSN Bulls Insider K.C. Johnson. We’ll bring you the latest updates along with guest interviews and breaking news. Episodes are released every Tuesday and Thursday.
Language:
English
Episodes
REACTION to Billy Donovan stepping down as Bulls head coach
4/21/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into the news of Billy Donovan resigning as head coach of the Chicago Bulls, unpacking what it means for the franchise moving forward. As the conversation unfolds, they break down Donovan’s farewell statement, highlighting the key acknowledgments to players, staff, and Bulls Nation, while reflecting on the defining moments of his tenure in Chicago.
From there, the focus shifts toward what’s next, as K.C. explains why predicting the Bulls’ next head coach isn’t so straightforward and the factors that could shape the search. The episode closes by looking ahead to the 2026–2027 season, exploring the identity this team might take on and how this transition could redefine the direction of the organization.
Duration:00:30:12
Bulls 2025-2026 Season Recap
4/16/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson share the latest on where things stand between the Bulls’ front office and Billy Donovan while also breaking down the team’s odds of landing the top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. They discuss the impact of Portland clinching a postseason spot, which secures an additional first-round pick for Chicago and gives the Bulls added flexibility heading into the draft.
The conversation then turns to our season recap with a deep dive into Josh Giddey’s campaign and growing leadership, along with Matas Buzelis’ progress and offseason mindset. They also highlight Tre Jones’ emergence as a reliable contributor and examine Isaac Okoro’s underrated season, including the offensive growth that caught Billy Donovan’s attention.
Duration:00:36:06
REACTION: Michael Reinsdorf addresses media
4/8/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson react to a major shift inside the Chicago Bulls organization following the departures of Vice President Arturas Karnisovas and General Manager Marc Eversley. The guys break down what led to the decision, what it signals about the franchise’s direction, and why this moment could define the next era of Bulls basketball.
They also dive into the press conference from Bulls president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf, unpacking his comments on the search for the team’s next VP and GM, the qualities the organization is prioritizing, and how extensive the process could be. Plus, where does head coach Billy Donovan fit into all of this? The conversation explores his future in Chicago and how the next front office hire could shape the team’s identity moving forward.
Duration:00:18:19
Bulls take on MVP Candidate Wembanyama and Final Four Preview
4/2/2026
Plus, it’s all about March Madness as the guys take a look at the Final Four picture, including Cam’s experience at the United Center for Michigan vs. Tennessee in the Elite Eight. Cam and KC make their picks for who’s headed to the championship—and who’s ultimately cutting down the nets.
Duration:00:13:53
Clutch Buzelis vs. Rockets, Durant Still Making It Look Easy
3/25/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ 2–2 homestand, highlighting Matas Buzelis’ clutch late-game impact and what stood out down the stretch. They also dive into Kevin Durant’s performance against Chicago, unpacking what still makes his scoring feel nearly impossible to defend, while debuting “K.C.’s Notebook” to spotlight Durant’s professionalism and lasting impact on the game, both on and off the court.
The conversation shifts to Josh Giddey’s playmaking surge, including a career-high 19 assists, and how his pass-first style continues to evolve with the roster. They also discuss Leonard Miller’s strong showing, the emergence of young contributors within Billy Donovan’s system, and preview the Bulls’ upcoming road trip. Plus, a look around the NBA with potential expansion news and “Cam’s Court” tackles the ongoing debate surrounding the league’s 65-game rule.
Duration:00:32:39
Buzelis Brings the Edge, Giddey Keeps Filling the Stat Sheet
3/18/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down Matas Buzelis’ continued rise after another great performance against the Grizzlies, including a career best third quarter. They also dive into the on-court back-and-forth between Buzelis and Luka Dončić and what it says about Matas' growing confidence and edge.
The conversation expands to Josh Giddey’s red-hot stretch and evolving mindset while also highlighting Buzelis joining Victor Wembanyama in rare statistical company. Plus, Taj Gibson makes another appearance at the UC and the first-ever edition of a new segment, “Cam’s Court," where Cam gives his two cents on the Bam Adebayo 83-point game.
Duration:00:42:36
Collin Sexton's offensive surge, Matas Buzelis builds upon strong sophomore season
3/11/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Chicago Bulls’ loss to the Sacramento Kings, where Collin Sexton poured in 28 points as Chicago struggled out of the gate. The guys discuss Sexton’s potential long-term fit with the team and highlight Matas Buzelis continuing to make an impact defensively with an elite block game, fueling the conversation about his underrated sophomore season and untapped ceiling.
Later, they react to Josh Giddey returning to the floor and recording his ninth triple-double of the season before looking ahead to the rest of the Bulls’ West Coast trip, including a tough back-to-back in Los Angeles.
Cam and K.C. also go around the NBA to talk about Jayson Tatum’s return and how it affects the Eastern Conference race, while Cam weighs in on the recent Thunder–Nuggets matchup he’s calling the “game of the year.”
Duration:00:37:01
Bulls snap losing streak, Josh Giddey continues to climb the record books
3/3/2026
The Bulls use a stunning 27-0 surge against the Milwaukee Bucks to end an 11-game skid. Cam and K.C. break down how that momentum shift unfolded, and Josh Giddey records his first triple-double since December.
From there, the focus turns to what’s ahead, including a challenging West Coast swing with late-night matchups against the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers. The conversation also highlights rookie Matas Buzelis and his steady presence all season, not just being durable but also embracing the learning curve and staying composed through the inevitable ups and downs.
Duration:00:21:28
Matas nets career-high, Coby White returns to United Center
2/26/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ frustrating 10-game losing streak and what’s fueling the slide, from late-game execution to lineup adjustments. The guys also discuss the opportunity emerging from the skid, including the valuable minutes Rob Dillingham is logging and what that experience could mean for his long-term development in Chicago.
They also dive into Matas Buzelis’ breakout 32-point performance against the Charlotte Hornets and what it says about his ceiling moving forward. Plus, former Bull Coby White makes his return to the United Center in a Hornets uniform for the first time since the trade, adding another emotional layer to a pivotal stretch of the season.
Duration:00:26:05
The takeaways from the new-look Bulls, Matas showcases in rising stars
2/12/2026
As the first half winds down, Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson evaluate how the revamped Bulls roster is starting to take shape. With Anfernee Simons, Rob Dillingham, and Collin Sexton now in the mix, the focus shifts to late-game struggles, locker room accountability, and whether this group can finally close out tight contests.
The conversation turns to which newcomer has captured their attention most, with Cam and K.C. each making their case and sharing a fun nugget about who Simons believes is the greatest of all time. They also preview Matas Buzelis showcase in the Rising Stars Game before looking ahead to the post–All-Star stretch.
Duration:00:22:36
NBA Trade Deadline Recap
2/6/2026
The NBA Trade Deadline takes center stage as the crew breaks down where the Bulls stand coming out of a busy day and why the roster is still a work in progress. K.C. Johnson offers his perspective on what he called the "wildest deadline" he’s ever covered, setting the stage for how Chicago’s moves fit into the league-wide chaos.
From there, the focus shifts to the newcomers, evaluating how players like Jaden Ivey, Anfernee Simons, Collin Sexton, Rob Dillingham and others could shape both the Bulls’ present and long-term direction. The episode wraps up with a look back at the Bulls tenures of Nikola Vučević, Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, Javon Carter and Kevin Huerter, reflecting on their impact and what their departures mean for the franchise going forward.
Duration:00:46:37
Rose's Jersey Retirement Recap & Buzelis Named to Rising Stars Team
1/27/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson open the episode by reflecting on an emotional night at the United Center as the Derrick Rose jersey retirement takes center stage. They break down what the moment meant for Rose, the franchise, and the city, before diving into the on-court action that followed as the Chicago Bulls edged the Boston Celtics on Kevin Huerter’s game-winning shot.
From there, the guys recap a tough loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, sparked by a big first half from LeBron James and a double-double from Luka Dončić. They also highlight Coby White who is playing some of his best basketball of the season, Josh Giddey finding his rhythm since returning from injury, and Matas Buzelis earning another Rising Stars nod while opting out of the dunk contest.
The episode wraps with a look ahead to a packed stretch of games, including multiple matchups with the Miami Heat and a visit from the Indiana Pacers, plus a debate on whether the Bulls should keep leaning into their effective double-big lineup.
Duration:00:41:36
Honoring Derrick Rose: From No. 1 Pick to the Rafters
1/22/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson take a reflective look at the legacy of Derrick Rose, ahead of his jersey retirement, revisiting the moments that defined his journey from a Chicago prodigy to one of the most electrifying players of his era. The guys walk through his rise with the Chicago Bulls, from being selected No. 1 overall to the peak of his prime, while also acknowledging the challenges and lost time that shaped his career.
The conversation expands beyond the court, touching on Rose’s early roots, his influence on basketball culture, and his impact in Chicago after his playing days, including his continued efforts to give back to the city. They also look ahead to the jersey retirement night against the Boston Celtics, and which familiar Bulls faces are expected to be in attendance for the momentous occasion.
Duration:00:46:18
Vucevic’s Game-Winner Lifts Bulls Past Jazz
1/16/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ gritty win over Utah, punctuated by Nikola Vucevic's game-winner. The guys examine Billy Donovan’s rotation choices and discuss how Jalen Smith continues to carve out a meaningful role.
The conversation also highlights Dalen Terry’s two-way spark, why Coby White is still searching for his offensive rhythm, and how it all fits into a demanding stretch of games ahead. To wrap it up, Cam and K.C. look ahead to a home-and-home with Brooklyn.
Duration:00:28:01
Matas Buzelis' Sophomore Spark, Coby White’s Injury Challenges | By The Horns
1/8/2026
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson take a closer look at the Bulls’ recent back-to-back games, breaking down what stood out from those matchups against the Hornets and Celtics. The conversation then turns to Coby White and how he continues to fight through his calf injury, before diving into Matas Buzelis’ continued emergence.
Cam and K.C. also share a lighter moment from K.C.’s live TV countdown on-court collision. Plus, a look at the Bulls’ decision to sign Yuki Kawamura to a two-way contract and how it fits into the team’s broader plans.
Duration:00:28:29
Giannis’ Dunk, More Bulls Injuries
12/31/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into a tough stretch for the Bulls, starting with Saturday night’s loss to the Bucks and the challenges that came with it. They discuss the impact of injuries, including Zach Collins, and dive into standout performances from Anthony Edwards and Giannis Antetokounmpo, with a closer look at Giannis’ dominant showing against Chicago.
The conversation continues with Giannis’ late windmill dunk that sparked a postgame scuffle and a debate over whether it crossed the NBA’s unwritten rules. Cam and K.C. also recap Monday night’s loss to the Timberwolves, examine the injury concerns surrounding Coby White and Josh Giddey, and reflect on their own personal injury histories to put the latest developments into perspective.
Duration:00:42:35
Buzelis, Bulls are Finding Their Groove
12/23/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ strong recent stretch, winning four of their last five and starting to look more settled as the roster gets healthier. They dive into how having all the bigs available has opened up more lineup and rotation flexibility, and what that means for Billy Donovan moving forward. The guys also discuss Matas Buzelis’ recent performances and why it feels like he may be turning a corner—easing some of the offensive pressure on Josh Giddey and Coby White in the process. Plus, a look ahead to a challenging six-game homestand against quality opponents, and K.C. wraps things up with a great story about how Rajon Rondo helped make him a better interviewer.
Duration:00:29:43
Bulls Fire on All Cylinders Against Cavs
12/18/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down arguably one of the Bulls’ most complete performances of the season, a win over the Cavaliers that marked Chicago’s largest margin of victory. They dive into Josh Giddey’s night—tying a career high in made threes while competing defensively to the final horn—and give love to Nikola Vučević for working his way out of a recent funk. The guys also discuss how a healthy Bulls roster could lead to a shift in the big-man rotation and how Chicago’s zone defense helped neutralize Cleveland on the boards. Plus, thoughts on two-game series as a playoff prep tool, Ayo Dosunmu’s nagging injuries and changing perspectives on the NBA Cup.
Duration:00:30:46
Bulls building through adversity
12/12/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into the Bulls’ seven-game losing streak and the defensive issues that continue to haunt them. They dive into Billy Donovan’s postgame comments after another tough loss to the Warriors, assess the latest injury updates, and break down what Chicago’s depth looks like moving forward. They also look ahead to another great opportunity to bounce back with games against Charlotte and New Orleans as the Bulls search for a momentum shift.
Duration:00:25:41
Bulls Trying to Turn the Tide Amid Losing Streak
12/3/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the Bulls’ latest setback in Orlando, extending the losing streak to four. They highlight Ayo Dosunmu’s shooting surge, Josh Giddey’s offseason work paying off with a more confident jumper, and the defensive lapses that keep resurfacing—especially around rim protection. They also look back at Tre Jones’ matchup against his brother and look ahead to what Chicago must tighten up during the upcoming three-game homestand.
Duration:00:30:53