The Chicago Bulls may be turning to a familiar basketball name as they search for their next head coach.
According to multiple reports, former NBA All-Star Jerry Stackhouse has emerged as a candidate for Chicago’s vacant head coaching position following the franchise’s decision to move in a different direction. Stackhouse, who currently serves as an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors, is viewed as one of several names being evaluated as the Bulls attempt to reshape the future of the organization.
Stackhouse has steadily built a strong coaching résumé since retiring from his 18-year NBA playing career. After spending time as an assistant with the Toronto Raptors, he became the head coach of Raptors 905, leading the franchise to a G League championship while earning Coach of the Year honors in 2017.
His success there helped launch him into the college ranks, where he spent five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt University. While the wins and losses were mixed in the rugged SEC, Stackhouse developed a reputation as a strong communicator and player-development coach.
Now, he could finally be on the verge of receiving another opportunity on an NBA bench — this time as the lead voice.
For Chicago, the possible hire would represent an interesting shift in philosophy. The Bulls have struggled to establish a consistent identity in recent seasons, often finding themselves trapped between rebuilding and chasing playoff relevance. Bringing in Stackhouse could signal a stronger emphasis on culture-building, accountability, and developing younger talent.
His experience working under Steve Kerr with the Warriors may also strengthen his candidacy. Golden State’s system has long been praised for its player empowerment, defensive discipline, and ball movement — traits the Bulls have lacked at times.
Stackhouse’s playing career also gives him instant credibility in the locker room. A two-time NBA All-Star who averaged nearly 17 points per game across his career, he understands both the pressures of being a franchise centerpiece and the demands of today’s NBA environment.
While no hire appears imminent, Stackhouse’s inclusion in the Bulls’ coaching search is another sign that his long-awaited NBA head coaching opportunity may finally be drawing closer.
