Bulls Introduce Tiago Splitter as Head Coach, Stressing Rebuild and High Standards
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Tiago Splitter was formally unveiled as the new head coach of the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, completing his move from Portland, where he served as interim head coach for most of last season.
The 41-year-old former NBA center told reporters he followed the Bulls while growing up in Brazil, often watching Michael Jordan games late at night. “I’m actually a Bulls fan myself,” Splitter said. “I watched many games hidden from my parents at 1 a.m., rooting for the Bulls. I’m super excited to be here.”
Splitter acknowledged that Chicago is “in the early stages of a rebuild” and warned that meaningful progress will require patience. “It’s going to be a lot of work, it’s going to take some time,” he said. “I know what it takes and I know the responsibility that comes with being head coach of the Chicago Bulls. I’m ready to start.”
Although he outlined a clear vision for the team, Splitter emphasized the importance of adapting to the current roster. “I have a way I want to play, but you also have to explore what the players do best,” he explained. “One thing I can guarantee: we’re going to compete every night and maintain high standards in everything we do.”
Reports indicated Splitter was a finalist for the Trail Blazers’ permanent coaching job before accepting the Bulls offer. He declined to discuss his departure from Portland, saying only, “I think there’s been enough said. I’m past that and want to think about the Chicago Bulls.”
New executive vice president of basketball operations Bryson Graham cited Splitter’s competitiveness and rapport with players when explaining the hire. “We are at the ground floor,” Graham said. “When you have someone whose vision aligns with yours and knows how to build a program, we couldn’t be more excited.”
Splitter also addressed the development of forward Matas Buzelis, the former lottery pick entering his third NBA season. “I’ve been studying him more and more,” the coach noted. “We’re going to work every day to help him become the best player he can be. He learns fast, will keep getting stronger, improve his shooting and reading of the game, and become a better defender. We see him as a very complete player on both ends.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
