The push and the extra motivation the struggling Bulls needed came from the team that eliminated them from the playoffs last spring.

After a surprising 0-4 start, Chicago beat the Pistons 97-93 on Thursday night, riding 19 points and 14 rebounds from Tyrus Thomas for that elusive first victory.

"It just feels a lot better. We got a quality win over one of the best teams in the league" said Chicago's Kirk Hinrich, who had 14 assists. "Now we've got to play better basketball and be more consistent."