> At a Glance
> – The Bulls-Heat tip-off at United Center was halted before it began.
> – Condensation on the hardwood forced a two-hour delay.
> – League postponed the contest; no makeup date set.
> – Why it matters: Fans face scheduling limbo and the Heat may not return to Chicago this season.
Chicago’s January 8 showdown between the Bulls and Heat never got off the ground as condensation turned the United Center court into a safety hazard.
What Went Wrong
Temperatures and humidity across Chicago soared above seasonal norms, causing moisture to form on the playing surface. Ground crews tried to wipe the floor clean, but tip-off kept slipping further back.
- Players were sent to locker rooms shortly after the scheduled start.
- Maintenance staff worked for nearly two hours before officials called off the effort.
Postponement Details
With no immediate makeup date announced, ticket holders must wait for a future announcement to reuse their seats. The Heat’s remaining road slate shows no trips to Chicago; the two clubs are penciled in for back-to-back games in Miami on January 30 and February 1.

Key Takeaways
- Condensation from unusual weather forced the rare NBA postponement.
- The delay lasted roughly two hours before the league pulled the plug.
- Tickets will be honored for the rescheduled contest-whenever that is.
For now, both teams pivot to their upcoming schedules while the league scrambles to find a new date in an already packed calendar.

