Joakim Noah scored 30 points and scooped up 23 rebounds for the Chicago Bulls on Friday night in a 108-104 victory over the Detroit Pistons. The Pistons lead for most of the first half, but a big third quarter powered the Bulls to victory and a 10-8 record on the season.
It was Noah's night that popped -- especially considering that he was going up against another potential All-Star in Pistons center Greg Monroe -- but Chicago's entire starting unit up solid games. Carlos Boozer contributed 24 points (though just six rebounds) and all three other starters were in double figures. As a team, the Bulls shot a scorching 52 percent from the field and pounded the Pistons on the boards, amassing a +13 rebound advantage.
Detroit was nearly as good on offense, shooting 50 percent from the field, 57 percent from three and 77 percent from the free throw line. But they could not overcome the Bulls at the end of the game, dropping to 6-15 on the season.
The Bulls will be back at home on Saturday night, when they host the New York Knicks at the United Center.