Splitter was the Trail Blazers' interim coach this season, guiding Portland to its first playoff appearance since 2021. Soobum Im / Getty ImagesJune 15, 2026 12:22 pm EDT Updated The Chicago Bulls have hired Tiago Splitter as their franchise’s next head coach, according to team and league sources who spoke to The Athletic on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly.Splitter, 41, took over as the Portland Trail Blazers’ interim head coach at the beginning of the 2025-26 season after Chauncey Billups was arrested as part of two federal investigations into illegal gambling charges. Splitter guided the Trail Blazers to a 42-40 record and their first playoff appearance since 2021. Portland lost to the San Antonio Spurs in five games in the first round.
The Trail Blazers, under new owner Tom Dundon, are conducting an open search for their next head coach. Splitter was a candidate for the position but will be filling Chicago’s vacancy instead.ESPN was first to report the news.This story will be updated.Jun 15, 2026Connections: Sports EditionSpot the pattern. Connect the termsFind the hidden link between sports terms
