Bridges’ Block Propels Knicks to Overtime Victory Over Bulls

NEW YORK, New York — With seconds remaining in a tied game, Mikal Bridges of the New York Knicks made a game-changing defensive play against the Chicago Bulls on February 20, 2025. As the Bulls executed a perfectly choreographed inbounds play, Lonzo Ball lobbed the ball to Nikola Vucevic, who was positioned just feet from the basket. Bridges, facing a significant height disadvantage against the 7-foot Vucevic, positioned himself strategically.

“Not trying to gamble when they threw it in and give up an easy layup,” Bridges later explained. “Just trying to make it tough, trying to time it up.” With only two seconds left, he anticipated the play and jumped at the precise moment to block Vucevic’s shot, preventing a late game defeat and sending the matchup into overtime.

“At first I was like, ‘Oh my God,’” Knicks teammate Jalen Brunson recounted. “And then he makes the play. I’m like, ‘Oh, good.’ I’m just very thankful for his long-ass arms.” Bridges’ defensive prowess has been a reason the Knicks invested heavily in him, trading five first-round picks to acquire the player known for his versatility on both ends of the court.

Despite his offensive performance averaging 17.7 points on 49 percent shooting this season, Bridges showcased his invaluable impact beyond scoring. His defensive skills have already been on display multiple times this season, including a crucial block against the Hawks earlier this month. Last November, his defensive effort against Dennis Schröder helped the Knicks secure a margin of victory over the Nets.

Though Bridges scored just 13 points on 6-for-16 shooting during this game, he proved that a player can significantly influence the outcome without a heavy scoring load. “To have a guy that deep in the post, to be able to get a block like that is truly amazing,” said teammate Deuce McBride.

Bridges’ block was one of several defensive highlights for the Knicks on Thursday night. Ariel Hukporti also made a pivotal block of Coby White in the fourth quarter, while teammates Precious Achiuwa and Landry Shamet contributed by applying pressure on the Bulls in the final overtime possession.

Head coach Tom Thibodeau praised the team, emphasizing the need for every player to step up due to injuries. “We need everyone, we’re shorthanded. Margin of error is tight. Go out there, play as hard as you can and find a way to win. I think that’s what we did tonight,” Thibodeau said.

The win was crucial for the Knicks, who were without key players, including Mitchell Robinson (ankle) and OG Anunoby (foot). With McBride stepping up to score a season-high 23 points in the absence of these stars, he helped fill the void, showcasing resilience and depth within the roster.

“Whenever he’s in the starting lineup or comes off the bench, he has the same mentality, the same energy,” Brunson said of McBride’s performance, which included five three-pointers, three steals, and three blocks.

Prior to the game, Bulls head coach Billy Donovan commented on the resurgence of St. John’s basketball under Rick Pitino, expressing pride in his fellow coach’s achievements. “If you look at all the situations he’s taken over, it’s generally the second year where his teams have made a huge jump,” Donovan remarked.

As the playoffs approach, the Knicks look to build on this momentum, capitalizing on strong defensive play and contributions from their entire roster, ensuring every game is competitive, regardless of the circumstances.