Chicago Bulls fans got their first real look at new head coach Tiago Splitter on Wednesday, and they quickly learned one thing: he’s not interested in rehashing old drama.
During his introductory press conference, Splitter was asked directly about the circumstances that led to his departure from the Portland Trail Blazers — the team he took over from Chauncey Billups before things ended abruptly. His response was polite, firm, and pointed.
“That’s a good question, but I really want to leave that behind,” Splitter said, according to The Oregonian’s Ryan Clarke. “I want to think about the Bulls. That’s my goal right now, and I want to keep that behind. I respect all opinions. I think there’s too many things being said already, and I think that’s enough. I’m past that, and I want to think about the Chicago Bulls.”
The message was clear: Splitter is looking forward, not back.
Speculation about the Blazers cutting ties with Splitter has centered on finances. Reports have indicated that Portland’s decision was largely a cost-cutting move, coming amid a series of staff layoffs within the organization. The team has not confirmed those reports, but the narrative has been persistent. Splitter, for his part, made no effort to confirm or deny that theory — or any other.
“I think there’s too many things being said already, and I think that’s enough,” he added, declining to fan any flames.
Old Teammate, New Chapter
One person who had nothing but positive things to say about the hire was Manu Ginobili, Splitter’s former San Antonio Spurs teammate. The two played five seasons together in San Antonio from 2010 to 2015, winning an NBA championship in 2014.
Ginobili took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate his friend.
“So cool to see @tiagosplitter becoming head coach of the Bulls,” Ginobili wrote. “Very very very happy for you my friend!! Congrats and good luck!!”
It’s a reminder that Splitter isn’t walking into this job cold. He spent years learning under Gregg Popovich’s system and has been coaching in various roles since retiring as a player. His Spurs pedigree, combined with his brief head coaching stint in Portland, gives him a unique blend of experience — even if that Blazers chapter ended sooner than expected.
What’s Next for the Bulls
Splitter now inherits a Bulls team that has been stuck in a cycle of mediocrity — not bad enough to tank, not good enough to contend. His job will be to bridge that gap without getting bogged down by questions about his past.
If Wednesday was any indication, he’s already mastered the art of the polite redirect. The real test comes when the ball tips off for the 2026-27 season.
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