The Chicago Bulls have officially named Tiago Splitter as their 25th head coach, a significant move following Bryson Graham's appointment as executive vice president of basketball operations on May 4. Splitter, 41, was formally introduced on Wednesday, bringing a diverse background that includes seven years as an NBA player and a challenging, yet successful, interim coaching stint with the Portland Trail Blazers. He steps into the role hoping to start another winning era.

Splitter's recent coaching resume includes leading the Portland Trail Blazers to a 42-40 record and their first playoff appearance since the 2020-21 season. The Trail Blazers lost in five games to the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the playoffs. Splitter's ability to guide the team to a winning record and a playoff berth in a difficult situation was a notable achievement. Splitter said it "wasn't an easy situation," but that by the end, the team had a "clear goal" and finished strong.

Splitter's playing career, which included a 2014 NBA title with the San Antonio Spurs, suggests a coach who understands winning cultures. His experience playing for San Antonio, Atlanta, and Philadelphia and working as a scout and assistant coach for Brooklyn and Houston, then coaching Paris Basketball Club to a French Cup championship, was an appealing attribute. Graham specifically lauded Splitter's competitiveness and ability to connect with players, crucial attributes for a team looking to rebuild and instill a new approach.

This hiring marks the most significant decision by Bryson Graham since he took over as executive vice president of basketball operations. Graham emphasized that Splitter's vision for building a program aligns with his own. "We are at the ground floor," Graham stated, expressing excitement about Splitter's understanding of how they want to play and build. The front office's clear desire for a fresh start suggests a willingness to commit to a long-term plan with Splitter at the helm.

Splitter grew up in Brazil watching Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, often "hidden from my parents and at 1 a.m." Now, he hopes to bring the franchise back to a successful period. The challenge will be translating his experience and vision to a roster that needs a new direction. Splitter's promise to ensure the team competes every night and maintains high standards sets a baseline for expectations, but the true measure of this new era will be seen in how quickly he and Graham can reshape the roster and establish a winning foundation.