NBA: Chicago 98, Washington 86

CHICAGO, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- Ben Gordon scored nine of his 22 points in the opening period Friday, starting the Chicago Bulls on their way to a 98-86 victory over Washington.

The Bulls grabbed a 14-point lead after one quarter and only in the closing moments could the Wizards reduce their deficit to as few as six.

Chicago has won two straight on the heels of a three-game losing streak. Larry Hughes had 17 for the Bulls and both Drew Gooden and Tyrus Thomas had 16.

Washington was led by 28 points from Nick Young, who made 12-of-15 shots from the floor and scored 18 of his points in the fourth period.

The Wizards have lost three in a row.

The Bulls built their big first-period lead thanks to a 19-6 run that featured a three-pointer from Gordon.