
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
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
Bulls back to the drawing board after loss in New Orleans
11/25/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson are back at it on the By The Horns podcast after a rollercoaster stretch for the Bulls. They break down what went wrong in New Orleans during the 143–130 loss and revisit Chicago’s close call against the Wizards, highlighting the defensive issues that continue to surface.
They also dive into Billy Donovan’s lineup change against the Pelicans that involved sitting Matas Buzelis to open the half, a Zach Collins injury update from K.C., and why Ayo Dosunmu’s strong start to the season has been a major bright spot. Plus, they look ahead to a crucial opportunity for the Bulls to flip the script against a pair of sub-.500 opponents in the Hornets and Pacers.
Duration:00:30:27
Bulls Bounce Back with Big Win in Denver 130-127
11/18/2025
Cam Smith and KC Johnson are back on By The Horns after a busy back-to-back for the Bulls. They break down the team’s response from a tough loss in Utah to a strong win over Denver, and highlight the key bench contributors making an impact — including Ayo Dosunmu, Dalen Terry, and Jevon Carter’s sharp shooting performance against the Nuggets.
They also look ahead to a challenging three-games-in-four-nights stretch and check in on Coby White’s progress as he works back into game shape.
Duration:00:23:03
Neil Funk on His Journey to the Ring of Honor
11/14/2025
K.C. Johnson is joined by longtime Bulls voice and 2025 Ring of Honor inductee Neil Funk. Neil talks about getting the call, going in alongside former players and colleagues, and reflects on his years covering the Bulls. They discuss travel on the road during the Jordan era and working alongside partners like John Paxson and Stacey King. He also shares stories about life on the road, his path through Philly and Kansas City, and what broadcasting in Chicago meant to him.
Duration:00:28:54
What’s Behind the Bulls’ Recent Late-Game Struggles?
11/11/2025
Cam Smith and KC Johnson break down what’s behind the team’s three straight losses to Milwaukee, Cleveland, and San Antonio. They discuss late-game execution and finding a consistent closer. They talk Matas Buzelis’ defensive learning curve, Billy Donovan’s take on the offense, and Jalen Smith’s strong play off the bench. Plus, how Chicago has handled one of the league’s toughest early schedules.
Duration:00:22:53
Bulls Erase 24-Point Deficit vs 76ers
11/5/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down how Chicago overcame a 24-point deficit in a statement win vs the 76ers. We discuss Josh Giddey’s back-to-back triple-doubles, Nikola Vucevic’s defense, and a second-half shift that held Philly to just 36 points. They also share postgame locker room reactions, what this says about the Bulls’ identity, and how Billy Donovan’s group is buying into ego-less basketball. Plus, updates on Coby White’s ramp-up, Ayo Dosunmu’s status, and a look ahead to the Bulls’ first back-to-back against the Bucks and Cavaliers.
Duration:00:24:38
What’s Behind the Bulls’ Best Start in Years?
10/28/2025
Cam Smith and KC Johnson break down how Chicago’s defense, depth, and buy-in have fueled the perfect opening stretch. From Ayo Dosunmu’s clutch shooting to Tre Jones’ poise and Vooch’s vintage play, the guys explain why Billy Donovan’s system is working and how the team’s trust and sacrifice are setting the tone early. Plus, thoughts on Zach LaVine’s return to the UC and a preview of Bulls-Kings as Chicago looks to stay unbeaten.
Duration:00:25:15
Bulls Hold Off Detroit Pistons in Season Opener
10/23/2025
The Bulls open the 2025–26 season with a win at the United Center! Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down how Chicago held off Detroit 115–111. Led by Nikola Vucevic’s 28-point, 14-rebound night, Josh Giddey’s 19 points and 11 assists, and Ayo Dosunmu’s lockdown defense off the bench. We talk Vooch’s veteran dominance, Buzelis’ first big dunk moment, Billy Donovan’s late-game strategy, and what to expect next as the Bulls head to Orlando for Game 2.
Duration:00:28:19
Chicago Bulls 2025-26 Season Preview
10/21/2025
The Bulls are back, and the 2025–26 season tips off with plenty of storylines. Cam Smith, Kendall Gill, and K.C. Johnson set the stage on the Bulls Season Preview Show.
From Josh Giddey’s new contract and breakout expectations to Coby White’s injury timeline, the crew breaks down what’s next for Chicago’s young core. Ayo Dosunmu’s strong preseason has him poised for a bigger role, while rookie Matas Buzelis looks ready to make a leap of his own.
They also discuss Isaac Okoro’s arrival, the push for tougher defense, and how injuries to Kobe and Zach Collins will impact the early rotation. Plus, Josh Giddey sits down for an exclusive one-on-one, sharing what his offseason taught him and why he believes this Bulls team can surprise people this year.
Duration:00:22:45
Buzelis and Ayo Hope to Give Bulls a Faster Start
10/15/2025
On the latest episode of By The Horns - Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down Matas Buzelis’ on-court confidence, Ayo Dosunmu’s pace and decision-making, and how Chicago should handle Coby White’s ramp-up ahead of opening night. We sort through Billy Donovan’s possible rotation and what Patrick Williams needs to do to stay consistent. Plus: what to watch for in the preseason finale vs. Minnesota.
Duration:00:28:46
Bulls Preseason Game 1: Three Standouts, Big Questions
10/8/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down Chicago’s preseason opener in Cleveland with a closer look at Matas Buzelis and Ayo Dosunmu, two players setting the tone early for this team’s new season. From Matas’ confident, physical approach to Ayo’s calm two-way impact, the guys discuss what their performances reveal about the Bulls’ identity, rotation battles, and early-season direction.
Duration:00:25:34
Why the Bulls Think They’ll Surprise People
10/2/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down Bulls Media Day and the first days of camp. They discuss Coby White’s injury concerns, Josh Giddey’s fresh mindset, and Matas Buzelis’ bold goals. Also, Billy Donovan’s push for more defense and physicality heading into preseason.
Duration:00:30:08
Over/Under: Setting Bulls Expectations for 2025-26
9/23/2025
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into preseason over/unders for the Chicago Bulls as training camp approaches. From Vegas’ surprising 32.5 win total to Josh Giddey’s playmaking, Coby White’s scoring ceiling, Matas Buzelis’ next step, and Patrick Williams’ role, the guys debate what’s realistic, what’s hype, and where the Bulls can prove people wrong.
Duration:00:32:00
4 Bulls with The Most to Prove in 2025-26
9/17/2025
Cam Smith and KC Johnson pick three (four) Bulls with the most to prove in 2025-26, dive into Josh Giddey’s new role and contract context, debate Patrick Williams’ path to consistent impact, and weigh Ayo vs. Coby in a crowded guard room. Plus: thoughts on the Bulls’ Ring of Honor second class and what’s ahead for Media Day and camp.
Duration:00:32:11
Bulls Lock In Josh Giddey — What Does It Mean for the Future?
9/10/2025
Cam Smith and KC Johnson react to the Bulls and Josh Giddey agreeing to a four-year, $100M deal—and why he plans to sign it in person at the Advocate Center. They dig into Giddey’s post-All-Star surge, what’s sustainable vs. not, and how his role under Billy Donovan unlocked downhill aggression and better defense. Then: the ripple effects—what this number means for upcoming decisions on Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu, the Bulls’ potential 2026 cap flexibility, and how this young core shapes free-agent pitches. Plus, KC takes us inside Billy Donovan’s Hall of Fame weekend.
Duration:00:32:20
Horace Grant & Bill Cartwright Reflect on MJ, the First 3-Peat, and Derrick Rose’s Legacy
8/25/2025
On the latest By The Horns, Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson sit down with Horace Grant and Bill Cartwright — two essential pieces of the Chicago Bulls’ first three-peat. The legends reflect on their chemistry as frontcourt anchors, Michael Jordan’s intensity in practice, the grind of repeating as champions, and the confidence that came with having No. 23 and No. 33 leading the way. They also share candid memories of physicality in the ’90s, their thoughts on today’s NBA, and their appreciation for Derrick Rose as the Bulls prepare to retire his No. 1 jersey.
Duration:00:18:17
Bulls Schedule Reaction: Tough Tests, Big Nights & Marquee Matchups
8/14/2025
On the latest episode of By The Horns, Cam Smith and KC Johnson dive into the newly released 2025–26 Chicago Bulls schedule, breaking down the toughest stretches, must-watch matchups, and potential statement games. From the season-opening test against the Detroit Pistons to marquee battles with the Lakers, Knicks, and Magic, the duo analyzes how early challenges and key homestands could shape the Bulls’ playoff push.
Duration:00:29:16
What the Bulls’ Fresh Faces Will Bring This Season
8/5/2025
In this episode of By the Horns, Cam Smith and KC Johnson break down the Chicago Bulls’ newest faces as the team gears up for training camp. From defensive stopper Isaac Okoro to rookie forward Noa Essengue, they dive into how these players can impact the rotation and energize the team. The guys also discuss Lachlan Olbrich’s rugged style, Yuki Kawamura’s electric playmaking, and why Tre Jones’ poise makes him a critical piece for the Bulls’ guard depth. Get the full scoop on what to expect from the Bulls heading into the season.
Duration:00:28:31
Ayo Dosunmu’s Road to Recovery & What’s Next for Nikola Vučević
7/29/2025
Cam Smith and KC Johnson break down the Bulls finalizing an extension with head coach Billy Donovan, exploring what his leadership means for the franchise’s future. We dive into Donovan’s impact on player development, communication with the front office, and how his presence may influence contract talks with Josh Giddey. Plus, an in-depth update on Ayo Dosunmu’s recovery and offseason grind, and KC clears the air on recent rumors surrounding Nikola Vučević
Duration:00:28:08
Yuki Steals the Show in Summer League, Matas' Momentum, and Josh Giddey's Negotiation
7/22/2025
Yuki Kawamura stole the show in Las Vegas and earned a two-way contract—but can he actually crack the Bulls' crowded guard rotation? Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the rise of “Yuki Mania,” grade performances from Matas Buzelis and rookie Noa Essengue, and share the latest on Josh Giddey’s stalled contract negotiations. Plus: updates on Bulls player chemistry off the court, Derrick Rose’s chess tournament takeover in Vegas, and what Damian Lillard’s return to Portland means for Chicago’s draft picks.
Duration:00:32:08