Vucevic Dominates, Criticizes Sports Gambling Amid FBI Probe

Nikola Vučević, soon to be 35, publicly criticized the rise of easy-access sports gambling apps and blamed them for shifting fan attention amid a broader FBI probe into illegal wagering. On the court he backed those comments with 28 points and 14 rebounds in the Bulls’ 115-111 season-opening win over the Pistons, shooting 11-for-18 with four 3s. Coach Billy Donovan and reporters said questions about his age are premature; Vučević said he feels fine and has prepared his body professionally. Rookie Matas Buzelis added 21 points and several highlight plays, underscoring a blend of veteran steadiness and young athleticism. Vučević is in the final year of his contract and has been linked to trade speculation, which he denied, making this season important for his and the team’s trajectory.