Tiago Splitter buzz grows with in-person interview

According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, Chicago is looking to provide Splitter a long-term deal in contrast to what the Blazers are prioritizing. Meanwhile, Siegel reports that the Blazers’ owner, Tom Dundon, said that Portland discussed bringing Splitter back.

However, he would likely be offered a lower-paying contract due to the Blazers’ making drastic cuts to their staff.

Spiltter is coming off a season taking over for Chauncey Billups as head coach in Portland. He then led the Blazers to the postseason with a 42-40 record. Ultimately, they lost to the San Antonio Spurs in five games in the first round. He is also a candidate for NBA Coach of the Year.

Among the other candidates Chicago is eyeing include Minnesota Timberwolves associate head coach Micah Nori, Atlanta Hawks assistant Ryan Schmidt, and Chicago assistant Wes Unseld Jr.

In April, Billy Donovan stepped down as the head coach of the Bulls after six seasons, all against the backdrop of a top-down change, which included the hiring of Bryson Graham as VP of Basketball Operations.

Graham has made it a point to look for a specific type of coach—one who prioritizes player development and is willing to adapt in an NBA that demands it.