Bulls Part Ways with Jaden Ivey Amid Controversy

Head coach Billy Donovan discusses the team's decision to waive the former first-round pick.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:35am

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The Chicago Bulls have waived Jaden Ivey, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, amid concerns over his recent behavior and social media activity. Head coach Billy Donovan addressed the decision, highlighting the organization's emphasis on maintaining a professional, respectful, and inclusive environment.

Why it matters

Ivey's dismissal from the Bulls comes after a tumultuous few months, including injury issues, controversial social media posts, and an apparent disconnect with the team. The move raises questions about the Bulls' commitment to their values and the challenges of managing player mental health in the modern NBA.

The details

The Bulls acquired Ivey in a three-team trade at the February deadline, but his tenure in Chicago was short-lived. After appearing in just four games, Ivey was sidelined for over a month due to knee issues. Upon his return, he continued to experience setbacks, leading the team to rule him out for the remainder of the season on March 26. Ivey's recent social media activity, including comments condemning the NBA's 'Pride Night' celebration, were cited by the team as 'detrimental to the team' in their decision to waive him.

  • Ivey was acquired by the Bulls in a trade deadline deal on February 5.
  • Ivey appeared in only 4 games for the Bulls before being sidelined with a knee injury in mid-February.
  • The Bulls ruled Ivey out for the rest of the season on March 26.
  • The Bulls waived Ivey on March 28.

The players

Billy Donovan

The head coach of the Chicago Bulls, who addressed the team's decision to waive Jaden Ivey.

Jaden Ivey

The former No. 5 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, who was waived by the Bulls after a tumultuous few months with the team.

Arturas Karnisovas

The executive vice president of basketball operations for the Chicago Bulls, who has yet to publicly address Ivey's dismissal.

Marc Eversley

The general manager of the Chicago Bulls, who has also not commented on the team's decision to waive Ivey.

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What they’re saying

“We have people from all different backgrounds inside the organization. This goes for players and coaches, everyone in the building. There has always been [a message] from the top: We're all going to work well together. We're all going to take care of each. We're going to accept each other. We're all going to be hardworking. We're going to be accountable. We're going to be respectful. We're going to be professional.”

— Billy Donovan, Head Coach, Chicago Bulls

“Obviously the whole thing is kind of unfortunate in a way. I hope he gets the help he needs, whatever he's going through or not going through. I do really hope he gets help. It's not going to be with the Bulls anymore, but wherever it is I hope he gets it.”

— Josh Giddey, Player, Chicago Bulls

What’s next

The Bulls have not provided a specific timeline for when Arturas Karnisovas and Marc Eversley will address the media regarding Jaden Ivey's dismissal, but their next regularly scheduled appearance would be following the conclusion of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Bulls' decision to waive Jaden Ivey highlights the organization's commitment to maintaining a professional, inclusive, and respectful environment, even when it means parting ways with a high-profile player. This move underscores the challenges teams face in balancing player development, mental health, and team culture in the modern NBA.