Bulls Fire Coach Jim Boylen As Team Needs 'Fresh Approach'

CHICAGO – Less than two years after being hired on a permanent basis to breathe new life into a franchise that once dominated the NBA, Jim Boylen has been fired by the Chicago Bulls.

Boylen, who was first hired as an interim replacement for Fred Hoiberg, was fired on Friday after the Bulls compiled a 39-84 record under the former Bulls assistant who became known for his questionable in-game tactics and who never won over a roster of talented, but young players. Boylen’s firing became the latest step in organizational house-cleaning that has taken place since executive Vice President Arturas Karnisovas took over earlier this year.

“I ultimately decided that a fresh approach and evolution in leadership was necessary,” Karnisovas said in a news release issued by the team on Friday. “This was a very difficult decision, but it is time for our franchise to take that next step as we move in a new direction and era of Chicago Bulls basketball.

“Jim is a great human being that cares deeply about this organization and the game of basketball. I want to thank him for his professionalism and commitment to the franchise."

Since Karnisovas was hired, Bulls general manager Gar Forman was fired and former Bulls guard and former vice president John Paxson was reassigned within the organization. The Bulls announced that a replacement for Boylen will begin immediately.

Boylen, who was hired on a permanent basis in December, 2018, was given a multiyear contract extension in May, 2019 despite finishing the season 22-60 with the Bulls missing the playoffs for the second straight season. After the NBA season was halted in March because of the coronavirus pandemic, the Bulls – who were 22-43 before the season was resumed in a bubble - began to reorganize which led many to believe that Friday's firing would happen in a matter of time.

“No one could question Jim’s passion for our team and our organization,” Bulls chairman Michael Reinsdorf said in a statement. “We sincerely appreciate his tireless efforts and contributions during his time with the Bulls, and we wish him and his family the very best.”