NO FEAR: Chicago Bulls Deny Pacers Central Clinching Win in Windy City

CHICAGO, IL.  It was another gutsy team effort in another season full of gutsy efforts as the Chicago Bulls welcomed their Central Division rivals, the Indiana Pacers, to the Windy City.

Taj Gibson solidified his case for Sixth Man of the Year with 23 points and 8 rebounds off the bench for the Bulls.

The Pacers came in with the best record in the Eastern Conference (51-19), and they were looking to clinch the Central Division crown with a win over the Bulls at the United Center on Monday. They would be leaving town denied and disappointed.

Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson once again lead a balanced team effort to slug out an emphatic 12 point victory at home, 89-77, over Indiana.

Taj Gibson tallied 23 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block in 33 minutes off the bench, another strong effort for the potential Sixth Man of the Year.

And of course, Noah had another complete all around game on both ends of the court, finishing with 10 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists, 4 steals, and 3 blocks. JoNo's effort has the Bulls pulling out another fearless victory over an elite team that continues to have Noah's name mentioned in the MVP discussion.

The Chicago Bulls defense was once again the story, forcing an ugly dogfight of a game between the Eastern Conference rivals. The Bulls held the Pacers to 37% shooting from the field on the night, and Joakim Noah dominated the Pacers front court to earn the Bulls the win.

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