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- Why Chicago wants a coach locked in before the draft
- Shortlist revealed: four candidates under consideration
- Why promoting assistants is a clear trend in the NBA
- How Donovan’s era concluded and what the new coach inherits
- Where the Bulls stand versus other teams searching for coaches
- Immediate steps and what to expect next
The Chicago Bulls are moving quickly to replace Billy Donovan and hope to have a new head coach in place before the NBA Draft, a push that reflects rising urgency across the league as teams reset after the Finals.
Why Chicago wants a coach locked in before the draft
Chicago’s front office believes a head coach on board gives the franchise a clearer path through draft night. Teams often prefer a coach to evaluate prospects and shape selections. With the draft days away, the Bulls are racing to finalize a hire. Decisions made now could shape the roster for years.
Shortlist revealed: four candidates under consideration
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- Ryan Schmidt (Atlanta) — A rising assistant from the Hawks’ staff who has gained attention for player development and scheme work.
- Micah Nori (Minnesota) — Part of the Timberwolves’ coaching group and known for tactical adjustments and defense.
- Tiago Splitter (Portland) — Former NBA player turned coach with Portland’s staff, bringing experience and international insight.
- Wes Unseld Jr. (Chicago) — The current Bulls assistant and a former Washington Wizards head coach from 2021–24. He is seen as the frontrunner.
Why promoting assistants is a clear trend in the NBA
Clubs across the league have leaned into elevating assistants into head coaching roles. The reasons are practical:
- Assistants often bring continuity and hands-on work with players.
- They are familiar with current analytics and modern offensive systems.
- Promotions can accelerate culture shifts while minimizing disruption.
The Bulls appear to favor that model. Wes Unseld Jr. is reportedly leading the internal race.
How Donovan’s era concluded and what the new coach inherits
Billy Donovan resigned after six seasons with a 226–252 record. During his tenure:
- The team reached the playoffs in 2022.
- Chicago qualified for the play-in tournament three years running.
- Overall consistency and deep postseason runs were limited.
The incoming coach will inherit a roster that needs clearer identity and direction.
Where the Bulls stand versus other teams searching for coaches
Three teams — Chicago, Dallas and Portland — are navigating coaching vacancies. All hoped to move before the draft. Reports place Portland farther along in its decision process, while the Bulls aim to act first. Team executives have discussed a potential announcement as early as Monday.
Immediate steps and what to expect next
- Final interviews and background checks for the finalists.
- Negotiations on contract length and staff composition.
- Integration planning so the chosen coach can influence draft choices.
As the draft approaches, the timing of the hire will determine how much input the new coach has on roster moves.
