James concedes feeling is probably mutual.
Miami Heat star LeBron James has admitted that they don’t like the Chicago Bulls ahead of the season-opening game on Tuesday night.
With the defending champions preparing for the game on Monday, they adopted running back like drills as they are fully aware of the prospect of it turning into a physical battle.
Previous encounters have seen both sides struggle to control their temperament, and as the rivalry continues to grow in terms of competitiveness both will hope to make a statement as the new season gets underway.
“We don’t like them, they don’t like us,” James said of the Bulls according to ESPN.
“It’s not unheard of. We all know how it is.”
Chris Bosh admitted that the 20 minute NFL-like drill was used in order to prepare them against a big, physical side and that getting to the basket and finishing will be of paramount importance if they are to get off to a winning start against their Eastern Conference rivals.
The Bulls will have point guard Derrick Rose back in action after a prolonged lay-off, and the 25-year-old has insisted that they will not lose focus as the hosts will have a pre-game ring ceremony to celebrate their achievement last season.
Chicago have been in this situation before, as they opened up the 2007 season at the AA Arena after the Heat had won the title in 2006.
While they went on win that clash 108-66, only Udonis Haslem and Dwyane Wade remain for Miami, while Luol Deng and Kirk Hinrich are the only Bulls players still around.
Both teams are expected to be at full strength for the meeting, with the action getting underway at midnight on Wednesday morning.
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