The Chicago Bulls are entering a new era under first-year head coach Tiago Splitter, and the transformation appears to extend well beyond the team’s roster. As preparations continue for the 2026-27 NBA season, Splitter has indicated that further adjustments to his coaching staff are still in the works.
Splitter is expected to begin evaluating his team immediately by coaching Chicago’s first two NBA Summer League games. Those contests will provide an early opportunity to assess the development of several young players, including rookies Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain, while also establishing the foundation for the team’s new direction.
Although several members of the Bulls’ coaching staff have already been retained, Splitter acknowledged that the restructuring process is not yet complete. Without revealing specific names or positions, he confirmed that additional changes are expected before the regular season begins.
The comments reflect the organization’s broader effort to reshape the franchise following another period of transition. As Splitter prepares for his first campaign in Chicago, assembling the right coaching staff has become one of his highest priorities.
1. Building the Right Coaching Staff
Splitter recently confirmed that he continues to evaluate potential additions to his coaching staff, emphasizing that the process remains ongoing. While he declined to provide further details, his remarks suggest that more announcements could arrive in the coming weeks.
The current group of assistants includes Wes Unseld Jr., Henry Domercant, Austin Dufault, Martin Rancik, LD Williams, and Pete Crawford. Reports indicate that Unseld and several player development coaches are expected to remain with the organization as continuity remains an important consideration.
Rather than replacing the entire staff, Splitter appears committed to balancing familiarity with fresh perspectives. He believes maintaining relationships with players is just as valuable as introducing new coaching ideas capable of moving the franchise forward.
Speaking about his philosophy, Splitter explained that retaining coaches who already understand the roster is beneficial while also welcoming new voices to strengthen the overall staff. That blend of experience and innovation is expected to shape Chicago’s coaching structure heading into the new season.
2. A New Chapter for the Bulls
Splitter arrives in Chicago after enhancing his coaching reputation with the Portland Trail Blazers. His leadership during a challenging period helped establish him as one of the NBA’s rising coaching talents, ultimately earning him the opportunity to lead the Bulls.
Last season, Splitter assumed Portland’s head coaching responsibilities following significant organizational changes. Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding the transition, he helped guide the Trail Blazers into the playoffs and demonstrated an ability to keep the team focused throughout the season.
Chicago hopes that experience will translate into similar progress as the franchise continues its rebuilding process. While immediate championship expectations remain unrealistic, the organization believes Splitter can establish the culture and identity necessary for long-term success.
Developing younger players will likely become one of his primary responsibilities. As the Bulls continue building around emerging talent, player development and consistent improvement are expected to define the early stages of Splitter’s tenure.
3. Summer League Begins Evaluation Process
The Bulls’ first opportunity to begin that process arrives during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Splitter is expected to coach Chicago’s opening two games, using the event as an early evaluation period before training camp later this year.
Particular attention will focus on rookies Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain, two prospects the organization hopes can contribute to the franchise’s rebuilding effort. Summer League will provide valuable insight into how each player adapts to the professional game.
Beyond evaluating individual talent, the games will also allow Splitter to begin implementing his coaching philosophy. Establishing communication, defensive principles, and offensive structure early could help create continuity as veterans join the team before the regular season.
Chicago opens its Summer League schedule on July 10 against the Memphis Grizzlies at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. While the results themselves may carry limited significance, the event represents an important first step in the Bulls’ new era under Splitter’s leadership.