Claim OwnershipBy The Horns: A Chicago Bulls Show
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Welcome to By The Horns, a podcast covering the Chicago Bulls. Hosted by Chicagoans Camron Smith and Drew Stevens along with 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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
With Summer League tipping off in Las Vegas, Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into what to expect from the Bulls’ summer league roster. They discuss Matas Buzelis’ mindset heading into his second NBA season, Noa Essengue’s mature and confident approach as he adjusts to the pro level, and Billy Donovan III stepping in as head coach. From stylistic changes to leadership development, this episode offers a full breakdown of what fans should watch for as the Bulls take the floor in Vegas.
Cam Smith returns from vacation to rejoin K.C. Johnson for a jam-packed episode of By the Horns. The guys dive deep into the Bulls’ offseason so far, including the re-signing of Tre Jones, the growing trade buzz around Ayo Dosunmu, and Isaac Okoro’s potential impact as a two-way starter. They also unpack the challenges and upside of first-round pick Noa Essengue’s transition to Chicago. Plus, K.C. explains why the Bucks moves around Giannis should be applauded.
It’s a special solo draft night edition of By the Horns as K.C. Johnson breaks down the Bulls’ selection of French forward Noa Essengue with the 12th overall pick. K.C. dives into the Bulls’ rationale behind the upside swing, Essengue’s background, strengths, and what GM Mark Eversley envisions for his on- and off-court development. You’ll also hear surprise cameos from Patrick Williams and Talen Horton-Tucker, plus some behind-the-scenes insight into who else the Bulls considered on draft night. Can Essengue and Matas Buzelis anchor the frontcourt of the future? And just how patient will fans need to be?
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson break down the NBA Finals so far—Indiana’s Game 1 steal, OKC’s bounce-back in Game 2, and what’s next. Plus, Bulls offseason workouts, Asa Newell’s draft stock, and Shaq’s Reebok pitch to Matas Buzelis.
The NBA Finals are here—and while some may scoff at the "small market" matchup, Cam Smith and KC Johnson are fired up for Pacers vs. Thunder. The duo breaks down why Indiana can push OKC, the key matchups and X-factors to watch, and why hoopers should love this series. They also react to DeMar DeRozan's heartfelt Lonzo Ball praise, revisiting the Bulls' what-if 2021-22 season. Plus, Cam details his first-ever half marathon experience, and the guys respond in real time to the breaking news of Tom Thibodeau’s firing by the Knicks.
With the NBA Draft just a month away, Cam Smith and Bulls insider K.C. Johnson break down the latest intel from Bulls draft workouts and rising prospects. Will Chicago target a guard or a frontcourt piece at No. 12? They dive deep into the cases for Egor Demin, Derik Queen, and Asa Newell—and debate fit vs. philosophy in the Bulls' draft approach.
Plus, the duo reacts to the All-NBA selections, Shea Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP win, and what his historic season means for OKC’s Finals hopes. They also check in on the Knicks-Pacers and Timberwolves-Thunder showdowns and discuss who has the edge as the Conference Finals continue.
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into the big news of the week—Matas Buzelis earning All-Rookie Second Team honors—and what it says about his trajectory with the Bulls. They break down his development, his defensive mindset, and why he could be the foundation of Chicago’s rebuild. Plus, the guys preview the Bulls' strategy heading into the draft with the 12th overall pick and highlight key prospects to watch. Then it’s NBA Conference Finals time—Cam and K.C. make their picks and debate whether the Pacers and Timberwolves have what it takes to make a Finals run.
The NBA world descended on Chicago for Draft Lottery and Combine Week, and By The Horns was there to take it all in. Cam Smith and KC Johnson break down the Bulls landing the 12th pick, share insights from the combine floor, and debate who could be the best fit for the team on draft night. From Cooper Flagg’s rise to under-the-radar names like Saint Joseph's Rasheer Fleming and Duke's Khaman Maluach, the guys talk development, frontcourt priorities, and the myths of lottery luck. Plus, KC shuts down those conspiracy theories and shares what he's hearing from insiders on the ground.
On this episode of By the Horns, Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson dive into the sizzling offseason chatter as Bulls fans dream about a potential Giannis trade—and K.C. brings a dose of reality to the fantasy. The duo breaks down why the Bucks' superstar isn’t going anywhere anytime soon and what it would actually take to bring him to Chicago. Plus, they go around the NBA Playoff landscape—from the Pacers turning heads to the Knicks' Game 1 stunner, and the Nuggets’ gritty finish against the Thunder. They also reflect on Gregg Popovich’s legendary coaching career and his transition to team president of the Spurs.
Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson are back on By The Horns, presented by Toyota, diving into a spicy NBA Playoffs first round. They kick things off reflecting on the Bulls' offseason position and why playoff scars are necessary for young stars. The guys break down Milwaukee’s collapse and debate whether the Bucks’ championship window is officially closed. Plus, they pick their favorite first-round series, rave about rising young teams like Detroit and Minnesota, and share why seeing NBA legends watch their sons ball out is one of the coolest parts of this postseason.
Stay locked in, fight through the playoff sleep deprivation, and make it up to your significant other later — By The Horns is rolling through the best time of the basketball year.
K.C Johnson joins Cam Smith and Drew Stevens on this end of season episode of the By The Horns podcast. We cover everything that happened this season and it effects the Bulls now and into the future. From the expectations going into the season, the end of the Zach LaVine era, Coby White's adaptability, Vučević's career year, and the emergence of rookie Matas Buzelis. We also discuss how the Bulls will approach the offseason and what to look forward to in the future.
The Chicago Bulls' season ends in a disheartening defeat against the Miami Heat in the play-in tournament. Cam Smith and Drew Stevens break down the 109-90 loss, analyzing the Bulls' struggles, Tyler Hero's dominant performance, and what this means for the team moving forward. Plus, a heated debate on the NBA's play-in tournament.
On this episode of By The Horns, Cam Smith and K.C. Johnson preview the Bulls play-in matchup against the Miami Heat. They discuss how the Bulls can use their fast paced style to their advantage, the Heat’s 4th quarter struggles, and expectations from key players on both sides. They give their x-factors of the game and the extra motivation in the locker room after Miami ended their season the last two seasons.
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How many big men in the East need to get injured for Vucevic to get in consideration? 7? Lol
No, because games like these are going to happen. The Bulls have outplayed expectations so far. Be happy the way they are playing.
We need a f.. change!! Well done!!!
Fire GarPax
Good luck guys!!!!!
Guys, I'm Eduardo, from Brazil, and very very very disappointed about our season! Terrible!!!!
Next Man up... Try out year anyway!!
Biggg hugs from Brazil!!!!