The Chicago Bulls’ head coaching search has officially entered panic mode. According to multiple reports, the team has zeroed in on Portland Trail Blazers interim head coach Tiago Splitter — and the stakes just got a whole lot higher.
On Thursday, Splitter was spotted in the Windy City for a high-stakes, in-person interview with Bulls brass, per league insider Dwight Jaynes. And insiders are buzzing that this could be the final step before a massive deal gets done.
“I have been told Tiago Splitter is in Chicago today meeting with the Bulls,” Jaynes posted on social media, sending shockwaves through the NBA coaching rumor mill.
A Long-Term Deal? Insiders Say It’s Coming
Sources close to the situation claim that Chicago is preparing to offer Splitter a long-term contract — a stark contrast to what the Blazers are reportedly willing to give him. According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Bulls are ready to make Splitter their cornerstone coach for the foreseeable future, while Portland’s ownership, led by Tom Dundon, has allegedly discussed bringing him back on a drastically reduced salary.
Why the gap? Reports indicate the Blazers are slashing staff budgets across the board, leaving Splitter’s future in Oregon looking shaky at best. One insider told us, “Portland loves what he did, but the wallet is closed. Chicago is the only real option for a long-term payday.”
Splitter’s Stock Is Sky High
Splitter isn’t just a consolation prize — he’s the hottest name on the market. After taking over for Chauncey Billups in Portland, he dragged a 42-40 Blazers squad into the playoffs, where they ultimately fell to the San Antonio Spurs in five games. That performance has made him a finalist for NBA Coach of the Year.
But here’s the drama: Chicago fans are reportedly split. Some see Splitter as a young, hungry leader who can turn around a franchise that has been stuck in mediocrity. Others worry about his lack of head coaching experience beyond a single interim season. One Bulls observer told us, “He’s got the fire, but can he handle the pressure in a market this big? It’s a gamble.”
The Competition Is Real
Splitter isn’t the only name on Chicago’s radar. The Bulls are also said to be eyeing Minnesota Timberwolves associate head coach Micah Nori, Atlanta Hawks assistant Ryan Schmidt, and current Bulls assistant Wes Unseld Jr. But insiders say Splitter’s in-person visit is a major tell — Chicago is reportedly pushing hard to close the deal before another team swoops in.
This search comes after Billy Donovan stepped down in April following six seasons at the helm, a period marked by organizational turmoil. New VP of Basketball Operations Bryson Graham has reportedly made it his mission to find a coach who prioritizes player development and adaptability — qualities Splitter allegedly embodies.
What’s Next?
If Splitter lands the job, sources say it could signal a seismic shift in Chicago’s identity. But if talks fall through, the Bulls could be back to square one — and the clock is ticking. One thing is certain: this coaching carousel just got a whole lot spicier.
Leave a Comment