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Bulls Sign Powell, Draft Wilson, Hire Splitter for Rebuild

8/11/2026

25 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Powell Joins Bulls

Norman Powell signed a two-year, $45 million contract with the Chicago Bulls after leaving the Miami Heat.
Powell said he wanted to stay, but Miami prioritized Giannis Antetokounmpo and could not meet his pay demand.
Miami gave up Tyler Herro, other players and draft picks for Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis.
Bobby Portis replied on X that he respects Powell but is not a “throw-in piece.”

Summary

Bulls Draft Wilson

The Chicago Bulls selected forward Caleb Wilson with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, calling him an athletic marvel with two-way potential.
The Bulls hired former NBA player and EuroLeague champion Tiago Splitter as head coach to develop their young core.
Management framed the 2026-27 season as a patient development year, expecting growing pains for the rookie-heavy roster.

History

Historical Context

When Michael Jordan first retired in 1993, Chicago rebuilt by adding veterans such as Ron Harper; the 1994-95 Bulls posted a 47-35 record and returned to the playoffs. Decades later, the 2026 Bulls followed that pattern, signing veteran Norman Powell, drafting No. 4 pick Caleb Wilson and hiring EuroLeague champion Tiago Splitter to steer the youthful roster.

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Powell Joins Bulls

Norman Powell signed a two-year, $45 million contract with the Chicago Bulls after leaving the Miami Heat.
Powell said he wanted to stay, but Miami prioritized Giannis Antetokounmpo and could not meet his pay demand.
Miami gave up Tyler Herro, other players and draft picks for Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis.
Bobby Portis replied on X that he respects Powell but is not a “throw-in piece.”

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