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The Chicago Bulls have found their next head coach, reaching an agreement with Portland Trail Blazers interim coach Tiago Splitter to lead the franchise into a new era.
Splitter replaces Billy Donovan, who stepped away after six seasons in Chicago. The hiring marks the first major coaching move under executive vice president of basketball operations Bryson Graham, who assumed control of the front office earlier this offseason.
Strong Season in Portland Elevated Splitter’s Profile
The 41-year-old emerged as one of the league’s rising coaching names after taking over in Portland last season. Elevated to the top job amid the circumstances surrounding Chauncey Billups’ legal issues, Splitter guided the Trail Blazers to a 42-40 record and their first playoff appearance in five years.
His debut campaign produced several milestones. Splitter became the first Portland coach since Maurice Cheeks in 2001-02 to post a winning record in his first season and the first since Mike Dunleavy in 1997-98 to win a playoff game during his inaugural year.
After a slow start, Portland developed into one of the league’s better defensive teams. Over the final 51 games of the regular season, the Trail Blazers went 30-21 while ranking among the NBA’s top 10 defenses. They also led the league in second-chance points per game during the season.
Splitter earned considerable respect inside the locker room, with All-Star forward Deni Avdija enjoying a breakout campaign under his guidance.
Chicago Prioritized Development and Leadership
The Bulls conducted an extensive coaching search before narrowing their list to four finalists. Splitter ultimately emerged ahead of Minnesota assistant Micah Nori, Atlanta assistant Ryan Schmidt and current Bulls assistant Wes Unseld Jr.
According to reports, Chicago’s front office valued Splitter’s ability to develop young players, align with the organization’s long-term vision and provide strong leadership. His varied experience as both a player and coach also played a significant role in the decision.
Former NBA Champion Has Climbed Coaching Ranks Quickly
Splitter enjoyed a seven-year NBA career after being selected by the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the 2007 draft. The Brazilian center captured an NBA championship with the Spurs in 2014 and later spent time with the Atlanta Hawks and Philadelphia 76ers.
Following his retirement in 2018, Splitter transitioned into coaching and player development. He began with the Brooklyn Nets organization before joining Ime Udoka’s staff with the Houston Rockets. He then spent the 2024-25 season as head coach of Paris Basketball, winning the French Cup, before returning to the NBA as Billups’ lead assistant in Portland.
Now, he inherits a Bulls team searching for a fresh identity after finishing 31-51 and missing the playoffs for a fourth consecutive season.
Trail Blazers Continue Coaching Search
Splitter’s departure leaves Portland with another vacancy to fill. Remaining candidates for the Trail Blazers’ head coaching position include Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori and Celtics assistant Tyler Lashbrook, both of whom are expected to meet with ownership in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, the Bulls are betting that Splitter’s combination of player development, defensive principles and leadership can help guide the franchise back toward postseason relevance.
