Wow, these last couple of days have been insanely busy.
I know we’re not anywhere near done with this front office overhaul, but I’m relieved to get that first big hire out of the way. I try to use these experiences as a self-reflection on my own work, and I’ve certainly learned more about how to approach a hectic news cycle after this past week. Now, when the Bulls hire another new front-office leader in, like, 36 years, it’ll be easy peasy!
The change has only just begun *dramatic movie music plays.* Now that the Bulls have found their new executive vice president of basketball operations, it’s time to look ahead to the next set of hires. However, as Arturas Karnisovas begins to plot this process out, he must confront a serious problem at the top of the discussion: diversity. Or a lack thereof. ESPN’s Marc J. Spears recently published a story about how each of the Bulls interviewed candidates for Karnisovas’ job were white. Around the league, black executives were clearly (and understandably) frustrated, and many voiced their displeasure within Spears’ report.
It’s since been reported that the Bulls did actually interview some people who haven’t yet been publicly revealed, which is at least relevant information. In addition, Yahoo Sports Vincent Goodwill mentioned that the Bulls did try to interview Oklahoma City Thunder GM Troy Weaver (who is black), but weren’t given permission. The Bulls were able to interview former player Nazr Mohammed though, according to the NBC Sports Chicago, and Michael Reinsdorf apparently spoke with him about an undetermined front-office role.
But still … names and hidden candidates aside, this isn’t a good look for the Bulls and it brings up a much wider problem around the NBA. For a league often touted for its diversity, many front offices are lagging greatly in this category. And franchises like Chicago should certainly be thinking about how they can help solve this problem. Fortunately, it appears that’s exactly what Arturas Karnisovas is looking to do, as Goodwill is now reporting that the Bulls new front-office leader “plans to hire a person of color for the general manager position.”
This topic (and a whole lot more) is covered in the latest edition of the Bulls Talk Podcast, so I recommend you check it out. Really good stuff all around from our friends over there!
Tom Thibideau hopped on ESPN 1000’s Kap & Company earlier today, and while it really wasn’t all that interesting (sorry not sorry) he did say he thought the Bulls had some “really good” young pieces on their roster. In fact, he reiterated that point a couple of times. Hm, would you find it cool to coach them? Asking for a friend.
Karnisovas’ international connections? Don’t sleep on them even for a second. Arguably one of his greatest attributes is his global network. He knows how to find the best talent almost anywhere.
AGREED! AND ESPECIALLY PLAYERS WHO SHOVE LEBRON JAMES!!
https://twitter.com/KDTrey5/status/1248310925871874048?s=20
Freelancer Stephen Noh did a great write-up over on Patreon about the Bulls new VP, and I highly recommend you give it a read if you still want to learn more about him. Also, some great links in there to previous interviews from Karnisovas … and he sounds like one heck of a cool, laid back dude.
The NBA HORSE contest is officially happening! The first-round will tip-off this Sunday on ESPN at 7:00 p.m. ET.
Unfortunately, since dunking is off limits, LaVine is running to social media for some ideas. My thoughts: (1) dunk it anyway because you’re freaking Zach LaVine or (2) master an unbeatable behind-the-back halfcourt shot over the next couple of days. Simple.
NEWSLETTER
