In a thrilling pre-season finale, Australian point guard Josh Giddey showcased his brilliance, leading the Chicago Bulls to a 126–120 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Giddey’s all-around performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he dismantled Minnesota’s defense with his signature playmaking, vision, and one jaw-dropping move that left fans and defenders alike in awe.
Giddey’s Masterclass Performance
Giddey, the Boomers star, finished the game with 14 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, and 1 steal in 29 minutes of action. Shooting an efficient 5-for-10 from the field and 4-for-6 from the free-throw line, he displayed the poise and control that have made him the Bulls’ cornerstone facilitator heading into the regular season. His ability to read the floor and make split-second decisions was on full display, but it was one particular play that stole the show.
Midway through the third quarter, with the Bulls clinging to a narrow lead, Giddey executed a move that will be replayed for weeks. Dribbling at the top of the key, he froze his defender with a lightning-fast hesitation, followed by a slick behind-the-back crossover that sent the Timberwolves’ defense scrambling. In one fluid motion, he threaded a pinpoint no-look pass to a cutting teammate for an easy dunk, leaving the Target Center crowd buzzing and Minnesota’s defenders in disarray. That single play encapsulated Giddey’s unique blend of flair, IQ, and unselfishness, setting the tone for Chicago’s hard-fought win.
Supporting Cast and Australian Presence
Fellow Australian Lachlan Olbrich also made an appearance for the Bulls, contributing 2 rebounds and an assist in a brief but energetic 3-minute stint off the bench. While Olbrich’s time was limited, his hustle provided a spark, showing why Chicago’s coaching staff values his potential.
On the Timberwolves’ side, Australian veteran Joe Ingles was sidelined due to injury, and young big man Rocco Zikarsky did not see the floor as Minnesota leaned on their starters in a regular-season-style rotation. The absence of these Aussies didn’t dim the excitement of the game, as Giddey’s heroics kept the spotlight firmly on the Bulls.
Australians Across the League
Elsewhere in the NBA’s pre-season action, Dyson Daniels was rested by the Atlanta Hawks in their matchup against the Houston Rockets. However, the young guard turned heads in pre-game warm-ups with some dazzling moves, as captured in a viral video. Hawks coach Quinn Snyder expressed confidence in Daniels’ readiness, telling reporters, “Dyson’s good to go for the season opener on Thursday.” Meanwhile, in Utah, Matisse Thybulle and Duop Reath were held out of the Portland Trail Blazers’ game against the Jazz, as both teams tightened their rotations ahead of the regular season.
Giddey’s pre-season performances have solidified his role as Chicago’s primary playmaker, and his chemistry with teammates is visibly improving with each game. As the Bulls gear up for the regular season, Giddey’s ability to break down defenses with a single move—whether it’s a slick pass, a crafty dribble, or a clutch bucket—will be key to their success. Fans are already buzzing about what the young Australian can do when the games start counting.
The NBA regular season is just around the corner, and if this pre-season finale is any indication, Josh Giddey is ready to take the league by storm. Stay tuned for more electrifying moments from the Aussie sensation!
For more on the NBA and its Australian stars, check out the latest updates and box scores here.