Chicago sports fans have plenty to talk about as the city’s basketball scene gears up for the 2025–26 NBA season. The Chicago Bulls are making headlines both on and off the court, with a wave of developments ranging from stadium upgrades at the United Center to key roster moves and preseason buzz. While the Bulls’ recent on-court results haven’t always thrilled their passionate fan base, the organization is doubling down on efforts to enhance the overall experience—whether that’s through premium seating, affordable luxury, or investing in the future of rising stars like Matas Buzelis.
Let’s start with what’s new at the United Center. On October 3, 2025, the iconic arena unveiled its latest seating innovations, introducing fans to the Banner Level seats and Banner Lofts. These additions aim to redefine what it means to catch a game in Chicago. The Banner Level puts you almost eye-to-eye with the championship pennants that have become a symbol of the Bulls’ glory days. The seats themselves are noticeably larger and more comfortable, featuring perks like in-seat service and exclusive access to the Banner Lounge—a space that’s quickly drawing rave reviews for its stylish bar and chill atmosphere.
For those looking to splurge without breaking the bank, the Banner Lofts offer a semi-private suite experience. Each loft includes six seats, with enough room for up to 10 people to kick back and enjoy the action. The pricing? For the much-anticipated November 10 matchup when Wemby comes to town, it’ll set you back $87.15 per person. Considering the private setting and a starter pack of snacks and drinks, it’s a tempting option for groups who want a taste of the high life without the usual sticker shock. Single seats in the Banner Level are available for $64.45 each, which, given the plush accommodations and premium vantage point, isn’t far off from regular nosebleed prices elsewhere in the building.
Of course, some fans might scoff at the notion of “affordable premium” seating, especially in a venue known for its high prices. But when you stack up the amenities—spacious seats, lounge access, and the semi-private feel—it’s hard not to see the value. As one attendee put it after touring the upgrades, “The amenities almost felt too nice to deserve that descriptor. However, upon further review, it actually feels appropriate.” The United Center’s staff, often working behind the scenes, continue to earn praise for crafting an environment that keeps fans coming back, even when the on-court product is a work in progress.
Speaking of the on-court product, the Bulls’ front office is sending a strong signal about the future by exercising the 2026–27 rookie-scale team option on forward Matas Buzelis. The move, made official on October 3, locks in the versatile 6-foot-10 forward for another season, guaranteeing him $5.7 million. Buzelis has been turning heads since entering the league, and his rookie campaign offered glimpses of why the Bulls are betting big on his development.
Buzelis finished his first NBA season averaging 8.6 points and 3.5 rebounds in just under 19 minutes per game. But it was his late-season surge that really stood out. After being promoted to the starting lineup for the final 31 games, he upped his production to 13 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per contest. He also showed off a more polished offensive game, shooting an efficient 47% from the field and connecting on 35% of his three-point attempts—on nearly five shots from deep per game. His perfect 10-for-10 shooting performance against the Miami Heat earlier in the year had fans and analysts alike buzzing about his ceiling. As one local observer noted, “The most impressive thing about this was that it didn’t feel like some jaw-dropping, historic thing in the moment. Buzelis was just playing with himself and dominating the Heat’s defense. That speaks volumes about who he can be and why his ceiling feels so high.”
While Buzelis is locked in for another year, rumors continue to swirl about potential roster moves. Jonathan Kuminga, currently with the Golden State Warriors, remains on the Bulls’ radar despite his recent contract extension. According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, “Chicago still having interest in Kuminga, Sacramento still having interest in Kuminga, Phoenix having interest in Kuminga, that’s not going to go away. It’s not going to go away.” The Bulls’ recent draft picks—Matas Buzelis and Noa Essengue—make the fit a bit complicated, raising questions about whether a move for Kuminga makes sense, especially given the assets required to pull off such a trade.
Elsewhere in the Bulls’ orbit, other players are making waves. Josh Giddey, who tweaked his ankle during training camp on October 2, managed to participate fully in practice the following day. That’s a relief for Bulls fans, especially with Coby White still sidelined. Giddey’s presence at point guard is critical, and the last thing the team needs is another injury setback as the season ramps up.
Meanwhile, former Bull Lonzo Ball is making a strong impression at Cleveland Cavaliers training camp. Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com reported, “From what I continue to hear, Lonzo Ball is somebody who continues to turn heads. He continues to show how he can be an effective fit for this team. Obviously there are questions about how much is he going to play in the regular season, is he going to play back-to-backs? Can he make it through a regular season fully healthy, but he’s showing glimpses of why, number one, he’s a better, more impactful player than Isaac Okoro.” Ball’s health remains a question mark, but if he can stay on the court, critics of the original trade may have more reason to grumble.
It’s not just the Bulls making headlines, either. The NBA preseason is in full swing, with five games on tap for October 5. The Knicks and 76ers are facing off in Abu Dhabi, the Magic and Heat are squaring up in Puerto Rico, the Pelicans are taking on Melbourne in Australia, the Nets are hosting Hapoel Jerusalem in Brooklyn, and the Timberwolves and Nuggets are clashing in San Diego. Basketball fans around the world are getting their first taste of the new season, and the excitement is palpable.
Back in Chicago, the sports calendar remains jam-packed. Bears fans are gearing up for a Monday night watch party at Frontier on the West Side, where the Bears will take on the Commanders. Free drinks will flow until halftime, and with the Cubs and Brewers still locked in a late-season battle, there’s no shortage of action for the city’s die-hards. For those looking to catch the National League Division Series in person, a $20 discount is available for NLDS tickets through Vivid Seats on qualifying purchases.
As the Bulls prepare to tip off a new season, the combination of arena upgrades, savvy roster moves, and the promise of young stars like Matas Buzelis is giving fans plenty to look forward to. Whether you’re courtside, up in the rafters, or just watching from home, Chicago basketball remains a spectacle worth watching. The city’s sports scene is alive and kicking—and this fall, it’s only getting better.