The Chicago Bulls are finalizing their search for a new head coach with four candidates in the running. Portland Trail Blazers acting coach Tiago Splitter, Atlanta Hawks assistant Ryan Schmidt, Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori, and current Bulls assistant Wes Unseld Jr. are the finalists for the position. All four will meet with the Bulls in person this week as the team moves closer to a decision.
Splitter, a former NBA player who has served as the Blazers' interim coach since the season began, brings a unique perspective to the role. He has guided Portland to a 12-18 record in his first season as a head coach. His experience on both sides of the game could make him a strong fit for a Bulls team in need of a midseason turnaround.
Ryan Schmidt, a 33-year-old assistant with the Hawks, has quickly risen through the coaching ranks. He has worked under Nate McMillan and is known for his modern approach to player development and analytics. Schmidt's age and energy could appeal to a Bulls front office looking to build for the future.
Micah Nori, 34, is another rising star in the coaching world. He has spent the past three seasons with the Timberwolves, where he has helped develop young players like Anthony Edwards and Jaden Ivey. Nori is also a finalist for the Blazers head coaching job, adding another layer of intrigue to the competition for NBA jobs this season.
Wes Unseld Jr., the longest-tenured assistant on the Bulls' staff, is also in the mix. He has been with the team since 2021 and has earned praise for his work with Chicago's young core. The Bulls could choose to keep Unseld as part of the staff if they hire an external candidate, which is a common practice in the league.
According to sources, the Bulls are expected to make a decision by the end of the week. The team is coming off a 10-8 start to the season, but with a youth-driven roster and a playoff push in mind, the coaching hire will play a pivotal role in the remainder of the year. Chicago has 10 games remaining in December, including matchups against the Celtics, Bucks, and Knicks.
The Bulls have not made a coaching change since 2010, but this season’s roster turnover and front office shakeup have led to a more open process. With four strong candidates in the running, the team is in a position to make an impactful hire that could shape their direction for years to come.
The decision is expected to be announced no later than December 15.
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