Splitter Stays Focused as New Blazers Owner Surveys Coaching Market
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Interim head coach Tiago Splitter says he is concentrating on his players and staff while Portland’s front office weighs other coaching options, ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported Tuesday.
Splitter, elevated after Chauncey Billups was arrested one game into the season, guided the Trail Blazers to a 42-39 record, a play-in win and the franchise’s first postseason appearance since 2021. Despite that turnaround, his status beyond this year remains uncertain.
According to Shelburne, new controlling owner Tom Dundon has spoken with roughly 20 college and international coaches as part of an exploratory search. Splitter responded to the speculation by saying he is “just trying to be a pro” and keeping his focus on basketball.
Shelburne’s sources said Splitter received a salary bump when he moved up from assistant coach and later entered talks on a multi-year deal. Those discussions stalled after the Blazers’ proposed salary came in well below typical NBA head-coaching pay rates.
Dundon finalized his purchase at the end of March after reaching an agreement last August, giving him insight into negotiations even before the sale closed. Since formally taking charge, he has implemented several cost-cutting measures, including reducing complimentary playoff tickets for support staff, sources told ESPN.
Reports that Dundon will cap head-coaching pay at $1.5 MM annually have been disputed; a source told The Athletic the owner is focused on finding the right candidate. Still, local observers question what more Splitter must do to solidify his position.
Forward Deni Avdija praised Splitter after Portland’s Game 2 comeback win that tied its first-round series. “He’s done phenomenal,” Avdija said. “He’s believing in each and single one of his players, and we love playing for him.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
