Tiago Splitter will take the reins for Chicago’s first two NBA Summer League contests in Las Vegas, starting with a Friday matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies and followed by a July 13 game versus the Utah Jazz. It is unusual for an established NBA head coach to appear on the summer-league sidelines, but Splitter wants to be on the floor from day one. After the two games, the coaching duties will shift to assistants Martin Rancik, Henry Domercant and Austin Dufault, who will guide the remainder of the schedule.

This is Splitter’s first season in Chicago and his inaugural summer as a head coach. He stepped in as interim coach for the Portland Trail Blazers last October, guiding that club through the final stretch of the 2025-26 campaign. "I want to set the tone on this first summer league camp," Splitter said. "Especially having guys like Caleb (Wilson) and Dailyn (Swain) that we drafted, they’re going to be important for this organization. So I want just set the tone and work with the staff and get familiar with everybody."

Photo: Chicago Tribune

The Bulls’ summer roster centers on three young prospects: forward Caleb Wilson, wing Dailyn Swain and 2025 first-round pick Noa Essengue. All three are slated to appear in each of the five summer-league games, giving Splitter ample opportunity to evaluate their fit in his system. The squad also includes undrafted Northwestern standout Boo Bouie, who drew attention after setting his college’s career scoring record, though the primary focus will remain on the drafted trio.

Splitter’s immediate priority is an identity built on defense and the battle for possessions. He wants the team to limit opponent shot attempts, force rebounds, and transition quickly to the basket. "You definitely want to put them in a good situation," he explained. "Try to play fast and try to get to the basket and to the paint and to rebounds. That’s how I envision this team." By emphasizing a drive-first approach, the Bulls hope to compensate for a roster that, while still malleable as free agency progresses, lacks high-efficiency shooting.

When Chicago arrives in Las Vegas on Wednesday, the presence of the No. 4 overall pick Caleb Wilson will generate more fanfare than many prior summer outings. The young core’s development, coupled with Splitter’s hands-on coaching, should give the organization a clear early look at how its defensive philosophy will translate to the regular season, setting a foundation for the months ahead.