Story perspectives

Bulls Hire Bryson Graham as VP, Must Name Coach

5/7/2026

Summary

Graham Hired

The Chicago Bulls hired Bryson Graham as VP of basketball operations on May 6, 2026, after a 31-51 season prompting April dismissal of Arturas Karnišovas and GM Marc Eversley.
Graham must name a head coach after Billy Donovan’s resignation and manage $58 million of cap space for 2026-27.
Michael Reinsdorf said Graham can exceed the luxury tax if the Bulls become competitive, while team holds two first-round and two second-round picks for rebuild.

Summary

Graham Outlines Draft

Graham’s press conference took place at Chicago’s Advocate Center on Wednesday, introduced by Michael Reinsdorf.
He emphasized drafting, shooting and defense as the Bulls’ 2026 NBA Draft priorities.
Peck, Big Dave and Will Gottlieb dissected his remarks about the young roster.
Gottlieb published an off-season guide and an article announcing Graham’s hire.
Media reported mixed fan reactions, with both optimism and skepticism.

Summary

Graham Targets Titles

Graham declared the Bulls’ ultimate aim is to win championships, shifting focus beyond rebuilding after a decade without competitiveness since Derrick Rose’s 2012 Achilles tear.
The young core now includes former Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey and 2025 first-round pick Matas Buzelis, highlighting international talent.
The NBA Draft lottery occurs Sunday at the United Center, offering the Bulls a home-court chance to improve their draft slot.

Summary

Reinsdorf Apologizes

CEO Michael Reinsdorf apologized to fans and accepted full responsibility for the Bulls' recent lack of success.
He said hiring Graham is an important step to reverse a decade of playoff disappointments.
Reinsdorf pledged to cover luxury-tax costs only if the team truly contends for a championship.
He warned the franchise will not pay luxury tax for a non-playoff team, noting the Bulls paid it only once in 2012-13.

1 of 4

Graham Hired

The Chicago Bulls hired Bryson Graham as VP of basketball operations on May 6, 2026, after a 31-51 season prompting April dismissal of Arturas Karnišovas and GM Marc Eversley.
Graham must name a head coach after Billy Donovan’s resignation and manage $58 million of cap space for 2026-27.
Michael Reinsdorf said Graham can exceed the luxury tax if the Bulls become competitive, while team holds two first-round and two second-round picks for rebuild.

1 / 4