CHICAGO — The Chicago Bulls head coach search is rapidly shifting into high gear as newly appointed Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Bryson Graham prepares to make his first hire.
Chicago Bulls Head Coach Search Intensifies Around 4 Front Runners
According to key updates from K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) on X, the front office has narrowed its extensive list down to a select group of high-profile candidates. With the franchise holding the No. 4 overall pick in a loaded draft and pivoting toward a clean rebuild, the choice at head coach will dictate the developmental trajectory of young cornerstones like Matas Buzelis and Noa Essengue.
Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori, Hawks assistant Ryan Schmidt, Trail Blazers acting coach Tiago Splitter and assistant Wes Unseld Jr. (@TheSteinLine 1st). We also discussed likelihood of Unseld Jr. and potentially other assistants staying on staff if Unseld Jr. isn’t the hire
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) June 10, 2026
High Leverage Candidates Take Center Stage in Chicago
The front-runner group features a sharp mix of elite modern tacticians and familiar faces, signaling that Graham is evaluating both fresh philosophy and existing infrastructure. As the interview process accelerates, league sources point to four primary names commanding serious consideration for the vacancy.
Tiago Splitter
Trail Blazers acting coach Tiago Splitter enters the mix with an incredibly impressive recent track record, having just guided the Portland Trail Blazers to their first playoff appearance in five seasons. Despite his stellar on-court success, the primary reason he did not secure the permanent job in Portland stems directly from owner Tom Dundon’s preference to spend low on a coaching hire. This budget-conscious restriction opens the door perfectly for Chicago to swoop in and land a highly coveted, player-friendly coach who already holds championship pedigree from his playing days.
Wes Unseld Jr.
Familiarity is keeping Wes Unseld Jr. heavily in the mix as an expected finalist. Currently on the Bulls’ bench after serving as the head coach of the Washington Wizards, Unseld Jr. possesses deep ties to the roster and previously earned praise for orchestrating elite defensive units in Denver. While his inclusion raises questions about continuity versus a total clean break, his knowledge of the current team provides a high floor.
Micah Nori
Minnesota Timberwolves lead assistant Micah Nori has captured significant momentum following Minnesota’s deep postseason runs. Known as an elite offensive strategist and a masterful communicator, Nori has been a vital sounding board for Chris Finch. His ability to build creative offensive flows around unique frontcourt pairings is highly appealing to a Bulls front office looking to unlock their young athletic wings.
Ryan Schmidt
Atlanta Hawks assistant Ryan Schmidt represents an under-the-radar name with heavy momentum in this cycle. Schmidt brings a wealth of unique head coaching experience from his successful stints with the London Lions overseas and the College Park Skyhawks in the G League. Recognized as a sharp defensive mind under Quin Snyder, Schmidt’s track record in player development aligns perfectly with a resetting Chicago roster focused on cultivating young talent.
The SLAP Philosophy Mandate
Bryson Graham’s front office has explicitly prioritised size, length, athleticism and physicality. The incoming head coach must possess a proven developmental track record to translate those physical traits into winning basketball habits.
Credit: © Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
