Chicago Bulls CEO Michael Reinsdorf Commits to Change in Search for New Top Executive

Reinsdorf acknowledges need for more hands-on ownership approach as Bulls prepare for fourth front office overhaul in recent years.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:58pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric illustration depicting a fragmented basketball court with players' movements and the ball represented through sharp, overlapping shapes in a palette of navy, green, and orange, conveying the complex challenges facing the Bulls' front office.The Bulls' search for a new top executive signals a shift towards a more hands-on ownership approach aimed at building a sustainable winner.Chicago Today

Chicago Bulls CEO Michael Reinsdorf outlined his plan for hiring a new top executive in a rare news conference on Tuesday, acknowledging the need for more hands-on ownership and a shift in the team's approach to building a sustainable winner. Reinsdorf said he will collaborate with former GM John Paxson and assistant GMs Pat Connelly and JJ Polk, as well as hire a search firm and consult with coach Billy Donovan, in the upcoming hiring process - a departure from the more autonomous approach the team has taken in the past.

Why it matters

The Bulls have struggled to find consistent success in recent years, failing to win a playoff series in over a decade and tallying only two winning seasons in that span. Reinsdorf's comments signal a recognition that a change in leadership and a more involved ownership style may be necessary to turn the franchise around and build a sustainable winner.

The details

Reinsdorf said he is not committed to a set front office structure, and the team may stick with the previous hierarchy of an executive vice president and general manager or shift to just a general manager with multiple assistants. He emphasized the importance of strong communication, basketball evaluation, and decision-making ability in the new hire. Reinsdorf also acknowledged the team's failure to anticipate league-wide trends like the 3-point boom, and said a key focus will be on better understanding and adapting to where the NBA is headed.

  • Reinsdorf's news conference took place on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
  • The Bulls will be meeting with coach Billy Donovan next week to discuss his future with the team.

The players

Michael Reinsdorf

The president and CEO of the Chicago Bulls, who is leading the search for a new top executive after the recent firings of Artūras Karnišovas and Marc Eversley.

John Paxson

A former general manager of the Bulls who is now a longtime adviser to the club and will be involved in the upcoming hiring process.

Pat Connelly

An assistant general manager for the Bulls who will also be part of the search committee.

JJ Polk

Another assistant general manager for the Bulls who will be involved in the hiring process.

Billy Donovan

The head coach of the Chicago Bulls, whom Reinsdorf confirmed the team will look to retain long-term as part of the front office overhaul.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I have to hold myself accountable, too. We do give a lot of autonomy to our people, but that doesn't mean they can just make any decision they want. It's our job to ask the right questions and to push back when needed.”

— Michael Reinsdorf, CEO, Chicago Bulls

“We have a history at the Bulls in the top position — other than (John Paxson) — they haven't always been the best communicators. It wasn't one of Artūras' strengths, OK? ... Our fans have the right to understand what we're trying to accomplish.”

— Michael Reinsdorf, CEO, Chicago Bulls

What’s next

The Bulls will be meeting with coach Billy Donovan next week to discuss his future with the team as part of the front office overhaul.

The takeaway

Reinsdorf's comments signal a significant shift in the Bulls' approach, with the owner acknowledging the need for more hands-on leadership and a focus on adapting to league-wide trends in order to build a sustainable winner. The upcoming hiring process will be critical in defining the next generation of Bulls basketball.