The Chicago Bulls on Wednesday named former Portland Trail Blazers interim coach Tiago Splitter as the franchise’s new head coach, ending a month-long search that began when Billy Donovan stepped down after the season.
“We are excited to welcome Tiago to the Chicago Bulls,” new head of basketball operations Bryson Graham said in a statement. “Throughout our process, Tiago stood apart for his basketball intellect, his ability to connect with and develop players, and the way his teams compete every single night. He has won at every level of the game as both a player and a coach, on multiple continents, and we believe his vision is the right fit for our young roster.”
Track record in Portland and Europe
Splitter, 41, took over the Trail Blazers last October after Chauncey Billups was dismissed. He guided Portland to a 42-40 record and a playoff berth but was not offered the full-time position once the season ended. Before returning to the NBA, the Brazilian native led Paris Basketball to both the French Cup and LNB Elite titles.
Focus on developing a young core
Chicago expects Splitter to accelerate the growth of Matas Buzelis, Josh Giddey and Noa Essengue while integrating the No. 4 overall pick in next week’s draft. The Bulls finished 35-47 last season and missed the playoffs for a third straight year.
Donovan, who spent four seasons in Chicago, is considered a candidate for other openings around the league.
Source: Hoops Wire
