The Big Red Bus: A Chicago Bulls Podcast

See Red Fred and the Podfather Doug Thonues continue the discussion with a debate on Matas talking trash to Luka.  They close the show with a discussion about the most common commercials while watching a Bulls' game.   The show ends with See Red Fred's 2 hit singles, "I Miss Coby White" and "Coby White".  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big Red Bus – Episode 245 - Still Trying to Win Show Summary  Title: Still Running for WinsDate: March 14, 2026Hosts: See Red Fred & Doug Thonus Show Opening The episode begins with See Red Fred introducing the show on a cold mid-March day in Chicago, welcoming co-host Doug Thonus as the Big Red Bus rolls again. Fred briefly notes: The podcast is now officially part of the All-City Network. Listener feedback has been very positive so far. The hosts plan to increase fan engagement, including future mailbag segments. Fred thanks listeners who send emails to seeredfred@gmail.com. The hosts plan to introduce regular listener mailbag episodes every couple weeks. Main Discussion Topic Bulls West Coast Trip: Wins vs Draft Position The first major segment centers on the Bulls’ recent wins over the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors during their West Coast trip. While many fans celebrated the victories, Fred strongly disagrees with the enthusiasm, arguing that these wins hurt the Bulls’ long-term future. Fred’s Argument: Winning Now Hurts the Bulls Fred explains his core frustration: The Bulls are fighting for meaningless late-season wins These wins reduce their chances of landing a top-four draft pick A top-four pick is the best chance to add a true superstar He emphasizes that: Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis both had excellent games.  However, their development could have happened even in losses.  Fred argues the Bulls should prioritize development while still losing games to protect lottery odds. The Draft Odds Problem Fred highlights the specific statistical consequences of winning:  If the Bulls finish with a better record than Milwaukee, their odds of a top-four pick could drop from: ~20% chance to ~13% chance That 7-percentage-point drop is the central issue driving his frustration. Fred calls these victories: “dumb, idiotic, meaningless March wins.” Comparison to Memphis Fred contrasts the Bulls with the Memphis Grizzlies, who he believes are clearly managing minutes to maximize lottery odds. He argues Memphis is: Limiting key players’ minutes Prioritizing draft positioning Meanwhile, the Bulls are: Playing young stars 40+ minutes Prioritizing wins over long-term strategy Fred points specifically to the Golden State game, where both Giddey and Buzelis played more than 40 minutes. He believes simply reducing their minutes slightly could have resulted in a loss while still allowing development. The Future Core Debate Fred lays out his vision for the Bulls’ future roster. Current Core He believes: Josh Giddey Matas Buzelis are legitimate foundational pieces. However, he views them as: Potential #2 or #3 options Not franchise-level superstars Therefore the Bulls still need one true elite star. The Target: A.J. Dybantsa A player with true franchise-changing upside Someone who could elevate the Bulls into championship contention Fred argues a core of: A.J. DeBonsa Matas Buzelis Josh Giddey would give the Bulls the foundation of a serious contender. But he stresses: The only realistic path to DeBonsa is landing in the top four of the draft lottery. Veteran Management Debate The hosts briefly discuss the possibility of removing veterans like: Collin Sexton Anfernee Simons Fred agrees with Doug that cutting them now would be a mistake. Reasons include: Damaging relationships with players and agents Hurting the Bulls’ reputation with future free agents Fred says the real mistake was not moving these players earlier. Front Office Criticism Fred predicts the current Bulls leadership will eventually be fired. His reasoning:  The franchise has produced only one playoff win.  The team risks being stuck in “play-in purgatory”.  He warns the Bulls could remain permanently mediocre if they fail to maximize this draft opportunity.  Fred argues that a roster built only around Giddey and Buzelis might top out as:  A 50 win ceiling team at best.  Without the top-tier superstar needed to win a title Closing Thoughts of the Segment Fred reiterates his central point:  The Bulls should focus on maximizing draft odds, not chasing late-season wins. He believes the current strategy sacrifices the chance to add a true franchise-altering player, which is far more valuable than winning games in March. ✅ Segment End Point: This summary covers the first portion of the show up until the conversation transitions to Leonard Miller (22:00). Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Big Red Bus – Episode 244 features See Red Fred recording from the road while driving the Big Red Bus down I-65 in Indiana alongside the Podfather, Doug Thonus. The two break down the Bulls’ bizarre 2-point “win” over the Suns in Phoenix and debate why the organization can’t even seem to tank correctly. They also dive into a discussion about the Bulls’ best unrestricted free agent signing since 2011. The episode closes with See Red Fred’s new single, “I Miss Coby White.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the latest episode of The Big Red Bus podcast, driver See Red Fred and the Podfather Doug Thonus celebrate the Chicago Bulls' dramatic turnaround, going undefeated in March, with a dominant win over the Milwaukee Bucks—after an entirely winless February that featured an 11-game losing streak. They dive into the key contributions from that Bucks victory, while also examining the ongoing struggles of newcomer Rob Dillingham as he adjusts to increased minutes but faces shooting inconsistencies in his new role with the team. The conversation shifts focus to promising young forward Matas Buzelis, highlighting his recent surge in production alongside discussions about the noticeable absence of his mid-range jump shots in his evolving game. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big Red Bus - Episode 242 – Episode Summary 2:00 — See Red Fred and Michael Walton II open with a candid discussion on whether Bulls fans should be concerned about Matas Buzelis’ development heading into Year 2. 5:30 — The debate shifts to role and fit: is Matas ultimately a true 3, a modern 4, or something in between? 8:36 — Ceiling talk: could a Giddey/Matas pairing surpass what the Bulls once envisioned with Lauri Markkanen and Zach LaVine? 13:30 — Front office accountability takes center stage as they question whether AKME should continue leading the organization. 17:37 — The episode wraps with a tough coaching conversation: should Billy Donovan remain the head coach moving forward? 🔴🚌 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1:00 See Red Fred and the Podfather Doug Thonus diving into growing concerns around the Bulls’ long-term building blocks.  11:00 The duo breaks down what Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis realistically project to become. 22:00 Jaden Ivey Concerns  28:00 Rob Dillingham Concerns Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big Red Bus — Episode Segments & Timestamps0:00 — Would You Give Up Your Pinky Toe for a Title?The ultimate fan sacrifice debate and what a championship would really mean for Bulls fans.5:00 — Which New Guard Do You Keep?Breaking down the new backcourt options and who actually fits the future.10:00 — Were the Coby & Ayo Deals Really That Good?Re-examining the contracts, value, and how they compare to league trends.20:00 — Zach & Lauri vs. Giddey & MatasPresent vs. future core debate and which path gives Chicago a higher ceiling.29:00 — Let’s Be HappyA reset on the franchise outlook and reasons for optimism.34:00 — Jalen Duren DiscussionFit, impact, and what a move like this would signal about the Bulls’ direction.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The legendary MarkK from Australia jumps on the Big Red Bus to talk about the Bulls recent team teardown at the All Star Break.  See Red Fred also asks him his thoughts on the growing issues with tanking. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Part 2 of Episode 238.   See Red Fred and the Podfather Doug Thonus continue the discussion and unpack the frustration building within the Bulls fanbase. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 1 of this episode, See Red Fred and the Podfather Doug Thonus react to the negative response surrounding the Coby and Ayo trades. They unpack the frustration building within the Bulls fanbase and even among loyal listeners on the Big Red Bus, exploring why the moves landed the way they did emotionally. Fred caps the segment with his car analogy to frame how fans are processing change, expectations, and direction.Part 2 will be up this weekend.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

See Red Fred opens with updated thoughts on Coby White following news that broke after his initial recording with Podfather Doug Thonus. Then, tune in for a special emergency segment with Fred and Doug reacting to the Jaden Ivey trade and saying adios to Vooch as the Bulls signal a new direction. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Big Red Bus – Episode 236 | Episode Notes5:00 – Will Coby White Be Traded?See Red Fred and Doug make a bet on whether or not he will be traded.10:00 – Building Around Matas Buzelis and Josh GiddeyIs it a good idea?15:55 – Nikola Vučević Trade RumorsThe Bulls Offer Vooch to Boston, and they say No.19:30 – Possible Centers for Next SeasonSurveying short-term and long-term options if the Bulls move on from Vooch.26:00 – Bulls Trading for Giannis AntetokounmpoCould the Chicago Bulls actually pull it off—and should they?34:00 – Trading for Clint CapelaIs Capela a realistic, stabilizing option at center, and what would it cost? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of The Big Red Bus, See Red Fred and Doug dig into three timely Bulls topics that sit right at the heart of the team’s present and future.Segment 1: Coby White Trade Rumors (5:00)We open the show by unpacking the latest buzz around potential trade scenarios involving Coby White. What’s real, what’s noise, and what would moving Coby say about where the Bulls think they are right now? We look at value, fit, timing, and whether these rumors reflect opportunistic listening or a more fundamental shift in direction.Segment 2: Matas Buzelis Development Check-In (24:27)The middle segment focuses on Matas Buzelis and his early development. While the upside and flashes are obvious, we zero in on his defensive struggles—positioning, awareness, and physicality—and talk through what’s normal for a young player adjusting to NBA speed versus what needs to improve quickly for him to earn consistent trust and minutes.Segment 3: Vooch and the WarriorsWe close by discussing the rumors around Vooch and the Warriors.   Is this about asset management, clearing developmental runway, or trying to recalibrate the roster without fully blowing it up? We debate the Bulls’ options—and the risks tied to each path.A classic Big Red Bus episode: rumors, development, and plenty of Bulls reality checks along the way. 🟥🚌      ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check important info. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

See Red Fred and Doug Thonus kick off the Big Red Bus with a burst of Chicago Bears excitement before quickly steering back toward Bulls country. Fred then unveils his “Lost in the Forest” fast-food survival game, prompting laughs, debate, and some very strong hunger-based opinions. He wraps it all by attempting—and mostly failing—to tie the game back to the Bulls fanbase’s growing excitement around Matas Buzelis, which only makes the segment more entertaining. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this latest episode of The Big Red Bus, See Red Fred and the Podfather Doug Thonus dive headfirst into the current disaster unfolding with the Chicago Bulls. With Coby White and Josh Giddey — the team’s two best players and starting backcourt — both sidelined with injuries, the Bulls find themselves staring into the abyss with no clear timeline for either player’s return. Fred and Doug break down what this means for a team already walking a tightrope between relevance and collapse. They discuss how the loss of both guards exposes the roster’s lack of direction — and how it magnifies the front office’s long-standing failures in roster construction and long-term planning. The conversation also explores what this moment means for the future:• Tank or Try for Spots 4-6 1:00• What are the next steps with Coby? 18:00• Matas Struggles 24:00 With frustration, honesty, and a little gallows humor, Fred and Doug unpack the reality Bulls fans don’t want to face — but can no longer ignore. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Recorded just before the Bulls’ win in Atlanta, See Red Fred and Podfather Doug Thonus break down a team that suddenly looks alive after a stunning two-game sweep of the Cavs. They dig into what’s driving the surge, then rewind to the seven-game losing streak to separate fact from frustration—who actually struggled, who quietly held the line, and what it all means going forward. A timely snapshot of a Bulls season that may have just pivoted. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

️ Big Red Bus — Episode 231 | Podcast Summary Find See Red Fred's Original and Parody songs on his artist page on the various music platforms:  seeredfred.fanlink.tv/SeeRedFred In Episode 231 of the Big Red Bus, See Red Fred debuts the hit single “Bring Back Gar & Pax,” setting the tone with classic Bulls humor and satire. Fred also shares the unbelievable story of an incident involving Little People wrestlers that ultimately brought his music career to an end—an experience that became a memorable moment on the Waddle & Silvy Show. The episode then rolls into Part Two of the interview with Joel Lorenzi, where the conversation turns to Bulls basketball in depth. Joel discusses some of his favorite players he has covered, along with a wide-ranging discussion on current and past Bulls topics, player development, and observations from his time covering the team. A perfect blend of Bulls talk, storytelling, media moments, and Big Red Bus energy, Episode 231 delivers laughs, insight, and plenty for Bulls fans to chew on. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

See Red Fred and Doug Thonus rumble down the road in their trusty styrofoam Red Bus, coming to terms with the harsh reality that all hopes of glory died with the Okoro injury—and that this Bulls team, unfortunately, really sucks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Notes — The Big Red Bus - Interview with Joel Lorenzi (Part 1) 1. Background & Chicago RootsIn Part 1, Joel takes listeners back to where it all began—growing up on the West Side of Chicago. . 2. Career Path & Early SuccessJoel discusses his path toward winning the 2023 USBWA Rising Star Award, an honor that spotlighted him nationally as one of the most promising young journalists in the game. He breaks down what that recognition meant at this early stage and how it fueled his growth. We get into the realities of NBA reporting—what he thought the job would be versus what he’s learned on the ground 3. Covering the Oklahoma City ThunderBefore arriving at The Athletic, Joel spent two seasons on the Oklahoma City Thunder beat for The Oklahoman. He shares what surprised him most about covering OKC—whether it was the team’s culture, the city’s basketball intelligence, or the way the organization operates behind the scenes. Joel offers insight into what makes the Thunder one of the most intriguing franchises in the NBA. 4. Joel provides his insight on a potential AD trade..and provides reasons on why he is against the potential move. Part 2 will dive deeper into the Bulls, the roster, the fanbase, and Joel’s early impressions of covering Chicago’s most beloved team. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big Red Bus – Episode 228: The Bigs Issue Episode Notes In this episode, See Red Fred and the Podfather tackle the growing debate in Bulls Nation surrounding the team’s frontcourt defense and the misconceptions fueling it. Fred breaks down why some defenders keep drawing the toughest scoring assignments—Banchero, Lauri Markkanen, and other oversized, high-usage forwards—and why blaming Billy Donovan for those matchups completely misses the real issue. The truth is simple: Matas is not physically ready to guard NBA power forwards, and Giddey can’t defend point guards or shooting guards, leaving others to absorb those brutal matchups. Fred details the specific physical challenges Matas faces right now—getting bumped off spots, losing box-outs, and being displaced by contact—and explains why these are normal development hurdles for a young forward entering the league. He emphasizes that Matas’ talent is real and his offensive flashes are legitimate, but a couple of highlight blocks don’t erase the 20-plus possessions where strength becomes a glaring problem. The episode also explores why the Bulls struggle to close games with a Giddey–Vooch–Matas trio, outlining how their combined defensive limitations create a structural disadvantage that no coach can scheme around. Ultimately, Fred reframes the conversation: this is not a coaching-mistake problem. It’s a roster-composition problem and a physical-development reality. Until the Bulls add more frontcourt physicality or Matas grows into his NBA body, Okoro will keep being the one tasked with holding the defensive line, even when the matchups look strange on paper. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.