The Chicago Bulls are expected to narrow their head coaching search to a group of finalists soon, and one of the leading candidates is a coach already familiar with the organization.
According to the latest report from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Bulls assistant coach Wes Unseld Jr. is expected to emerge as a finalist for the position previously held by Billy Donovan.
“NEW stuff from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer: The Chicago search is yet another that Nori has factored into.
The Bulls, meanwhile, are expected to narrow down their list of candidates to a group of finalists by early next week at the latest, league sources say.
One name among numerous interviewees we've been told to expect as a finalist: Incumbent Bulls assistant coach Wes Unseld Jr. Unseld has past head coaching experience in Washington.”
Unseld served as one of Donovan’s top assistants and brings previous head coaching experience from his tenure with the Washington Wizards. His familiarity with Chicago’s roster and organization could make him an appealing option as the franchise enters a new era under executive Bryson Graham.
Stein and Fischer also noted that senior advisor John Paxson has remained involved in the interview process, continuing to serve as a trusted voice for ownership despite no longer leading basketball operations.
Wes Unseld Jr. emerges as finalist as Bulls coaching search enters decisive stage
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Additional reporting from ClutchPoints NBA insider Brett Siegel indicated that Chicago’s finalist list is expected to be finalized next week.
“Bulls will be finalizing their list next week. Sean Sweeney was right at the top with Chris Quinn before taking the Magic job.
Quinn and Wolves' assistant Micah Nori are still candidates, along with Bulls assistant Wes Unseld Jr.”
Chicago’s search has undergone adjustments in recent days after former San Antonio Spurs assistant Sean Sweeney accepted the head coaching position with the Orlando Magic following the dismissal of Jamahl Mosley, who later became head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans.
Other reported candidates include Chris Quinn of the Miami Heat, Micah Nori of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dave Bliss of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Tiago Splitter of the Portland Trail Blazers.
With the finalist stage approaching, Unseld now appears positioned to receive serious consideration as Chicago searches for Donovan’s successor.
The Chicago Bulls are expected to narrow their head coaching search to a group of finalists soon, and one of the leading candidates is a coach already familiar with the organization. According to the latest report from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Bulls assistant coach Wes Unseld Jr.