Rose exploits ensure Bulls pip Cavaliers by one point

• Last Updated: November 06. 2009 7:28PM UAE / November 6. 2009 3:28PM GMT

Derrick Rose scored 10 of his 14 points in the fourth quarter, including a decisive jump shot in the final two minutes, as the Chicago Bulls beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 86-85.

Rose, last season’s rookie of the year, added 11 assists as the Bulls held off the Cavaliers with an inspired defensive effort. “It’s huge,” Rose said. “Our chemistry on offence really isn’t there yet. But you have time for that – if you can continue to stop people you’ll be fine.”

League MVP LeBron James scored 25 points for the Cavaliers, but lost the ball while driving to the basket for a potential game-winning shot in the final seconds.

The Cavaliers, who had a 40-2 regular-season record at home last season, have lost twice already in Cleveland this season.

In a tight match, the hosts had possession as they trailed by a point with four seconds to go but James drove to his left and the ball slipped out of his hands as prepared to shoot.

James, who finished with seven rebounds and six assists, wanted a foul called on the play but did not get the whistle. “I felt a push and some contact up top,” he said.

“Enough to put me on the free throw line? Yes, but it is a judgment call from the refs, and he saw what he saw.”

The Bulls took the lead for good when Taj Gibson made a jump shot to give the road team a 76-74 advantage with 7.03 remaining.

With his team trailing 86-82, James knocked down a three-pointer to pull Cleveland within one point with 1.32 left but neither team would score again.

Luol Deng led the way for Chicago with 15 points while John Salmons added 14.

Elsewhere, Carlos Boozer scored 27 points and finished with 14 rebounds as the Utah Jazz beat the San Antonio Spurs 113-99.

* Reuters