Momentum:
Faces of Bulls Fest
Presented by Moments Media, TA98’s Digital Storytelling Division
Written by Araceli Ramirez
Photography by Brisa Rivera, Pedro Ramirez, Araceli Ramirez
The Chicago Bulls launched the third annual Bulls Fest, a two-day celebration Aug. 23–24, 2025, that marked the United Center’s 30th anniversary.
Beyond the tournaments, artwork, and slam dunks, it was the people, young hoopers, first-time visitors, and seasoned performers, who gave the festival its energy.
Lot C turned into a family-friendly hub with a 3-on-3 tournament, Youth Hoops clinics, and Art of the Game, a showcase sponsored by American Express that featured work from 11 local artists, including TA98’s Grounded Studio, creative director Emmanuel Gomez. Players such as rookie Noah Essengue greeted fans, and Team Flight Brothers electrified the crowd in the slam dunk contest.
This year, the Bulls partnered with The Alliance 98 to document the festival through portraits and interviews that captured the faces and voices of Bulls Fest, showing how basketball continues to unite Chicago communities.
Here are some of the voices that brought Bulls Fest to life.
Marshelle Sanders
Marshelle Sanders, reporter at the Chicago Defender
She covered the festival on social media and valued the support for emerging Chicago artists and the blend of art and sports. Her favorite piece was by Elloo, a Pilsen-based artist known for vibrant, colorful compositions.
“Sports is a part of music, a part of fashion, a part of arts. I mean, look at Benny the Bull eating ice cream. The ice cream looks orange just like a basketball.”
Jeffry Fuhrmann
Jeffry Fuhrmann, Team Flight Brothers
He performed in his first professional dunk contest as part of Team Flight Brothers. The crowd’s energy made the moment unforgettable.
“My favorite part was when Benny the Bull came over and gave me a kiss. The crowd went wild.”
Jeremy Bennett
Jeremy Bennett, Englewood resident
A first-time visitor, Bennett brought his family, including his daughter. They shot baskets together on the outdoor courts, and he called sharing that moment the highlight of the day.
“I shot around outside with my daughter. The best part was being on the courts with my daughter and seeing all the families out here together. That is what makes it special.”
Caroline Kelty
Caroline Kelty, River Forest, Ill., resident
She came with former college teammates. She played at the University of Illinois Springfield, while her friends played at Lewis University. For them, Bulls Fest felt like a reunion.
“This means a lot. We graduated college about six years ago, so it’s really fun to get back out here and feel like we’re young again.”
Kyle Cummings
Kyle Cummings, Director of Basketball Programming
He oversaw youth basketball activities for the Bulls and called Bulls Fest one of his favorite events, especially for bringing fans from across the city together.
“At the root of it, and why we do it, is really just for the fans. Our fans are our culture. They’re the heartbeat of the organization. They’re why we do everything.”
Isabella Brito
Isabella Brito, 12, Belmont Cragin resident
A member of the Chicago Skyhawks Junior Wheelchair Basketball team, Isabella attended Bulls Fest for the first time. She said playing outdoors was a new experience compared with the team’s usual indoor games.
“I love challenges. Usually, we play full court, so I’m not used to half court. I play varsity even though I’m 12, but this time they put me with prep. I love everyone on my team, we’re like family to each other.”
Rick Figueroa
Rick Figueroa, Lincoln Park resident
A first-time attendee, he was drawn to the variety of activities, especially the 3-on-3 tournament. For him, the Bulls represented more than basketball.
“The Bulls are everything. It’s my culture. It’s Chicago culture. For me, it means a lot. It’s my childhood and my present. It’s everything.”
