The Chicago Bulls are 0-2 in Summer League, and honestly, that’s not even the story. The story is that No. 12 overall pick Noa Essengue started the first half against Utah on Monday, then sat the whole third quarter while his coach explained why.
Tiago Splitter, the Bulls’ new head coach, pulled Essengue from the starting lineup for the second half. According to K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network, Splitter told the rookie he wanted more energy on both ends and more leadership. Also wanted an extra ball handler on the floor. That’s the public explanation, anyway.
Essengue finished with six points, five rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks in 18 minutes. Shot 1-for-4 from the field, 2-for-3 from the line. Not terrible, not great. But the message from Splitter was clear: draft status doesn’t get you a pass.
Caleb Wilson is making the most of his minutes
Meanwhile, No. 4 overall pick Caleb Wilson went for 19 points, eight rebounds, five blocks, two assists and two steals in 29 minutes. Shot 8-for-17 from the field and 3-for-8 from deep. He’s been the Bulls’ best Summer League player so far, and it’s not especially close.
Wilson’s emergence makes Essengue’s benching even more noticeable. You got two first-round picks on the roster, and one is producing at a level that makes the other one’s struggles stand out. Splitter isn’t treating this like a showcase where everyone gets equal run. He’s treating it like a tryout, which is exactly what Summer League is supposed to be.
Essengue said Splitter told him directly: more energy, more leadership. That’s not subtle coaching. That’s a public challenge wrapped in a benching.
What this means for the Bulls’ long-term plans
Chicago is still figuring out its core. The front office is watching everything. And Splitter, in his first offseason with the team, is establishing a standard right now. Summer League games don’t count in the standings, but they count for something. Players who show up with effort and consistency earn minutes. Players who don’t, sit.
The Bulls play Washington on Tuesday night. That game features 2026 No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa, so the spotlight will be bright. For Essengue, it’s a chance to respond. For Wilson, it’s another chance to build on a hot start. For Splitter, it’s another chance to send a message, whether anyone likes it or not.
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