STATION 13: Defense, Belief And A Superstar

The Bulls understand the recipe for success down the stretch

How were the Chicago Bulls able to come back in the fourth quarter on Tuesday night to snatch a hard-fought victory from the Atlanta Hawks by the score of 76-74?

First of all, they were only down 14 heading into the fourth quarter as a result of their defense. Though Chicago couldn't score, they only allowed the Hawks to score 56 points of their own (74 for the game on 35% FG).

Next comes belief - despite shooting horrendously for three quarters, the Bulls clearly believed that they could come back from 14 points down with 12 minutes to play. They didn't rush, they didn't panic; they just played the game in a way that is conducive to the way they're coached and had an excellent quarter.

The last ingredient to the Bulls fantastic comeback was the 2010-11 MVP of the NBA: Derrick Rose. Rose knocked down key shot after key shot and made excellent decision after excellent decision. If you're going to come back from a double-digit deficit, you have to have that one guy you can count on to get the job done in the waning moments of the game. 

These three components added up to a valiant comeback and big W for the Chicago Bulls. If your team is on the ropes late in the game, just remember that defense and belief in your team/coaching staff goes a long toward coming back. 

Hopefully you have that late game closer who wants to step up in the clutch, as well.