NBA: Tre Jones helps Bulls beat Wizards for second time in 3 days

Chicago Bulls got strong all-around performances from Tre Jones, Collin Sexton, and Leonard Miller to defeat the Washington Wizards, 119-108, on Thursday in Washington.

Jones led Chicago with 31 points, shooting 9-of-14 from the field and a perfect 12-of-12 from the free-throw line. Sexton added 27 points, while Miller delivered a career-high 26 points along with 11 rebounds to record his second double-double in three games.

Chicago (31-49) closed the third quarter with a decisive surge to take control of the game and snapped a seven-game losing streak. The Bulls had already beaten Washington earlier in the week and completed the season sweep in dominant fashion.

The Bulls controlled the interior throughout, outscoring Washington 68-50 in the paint and holding a 26-18 edge in fast-break points.

For Washington (17-63), rookie Will Riley posted 23 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, while Julian Reese contributed 16 points and 15 rebounds. Leaky Black and Anthony Gill each scored 14 points for the undermanned Wizards, who played with the league-minimum eight available players and have now lost 24 of their last 25 games.

Washington briefly threatened late in the third quarter when Jamir Watkins hit a 3-pointer to cut the deficit to 71-70 with 4:03 remaining. However, Chicago responded with a 16-4 run to close the period, highlighted by three straight layups and a finishing basket from Jones off a behind-the-back assist from Rob Dillingham.

The Wizards trimmed the margin again in the fourth, pulling within 103-93 after a Justin Champagnie 3-pointer capped a 7-0 run. But Sexton answered with a layup to halt the momentum, and Chicago steadily rebuilt its lead. Patrick Williams later buried a 3-pointer to push the advantage to 117-98 and seal the win.

Before the game, Wizards coach Brian Keefe announced that forward Alex Sarr is likely out for the remainder of the season due to a toe injury. Chicago also suffered a setback when Guerschon Yabusele exited in the third quarter with a sprained left shoulder and did not return. -Field Level Media/Reuters