http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3417029
Collins returning to Bulls as head coach
The
Chicago Bulls' next head coach will be a familiar face.
Doug Collins, who has coached the Bulls,
Washington Wizards and
Detroit Pistons, will be hired as Chicago's new coach.
Among the factors that led to Collins' decision to return to the NBA: his relationship with Bulls vice president of basketball operations John Paxson, whom he coached; his relationship with team owner Jerry Reinsdorf, whom he worked for earlier in his coaching career; and the fond memories he has of his time in Chicago in the early part of Michael Jordan's prolific career.
Earlier this month, Collins told ESPN.com's Marc Stein that he had "no interest" in coaching again.
Paxson said Thursday in a statement that the Bulls and Collins do not have a deal.
"I have been in contact with Doug Collins in regard to our head coaching position. Contrary to some reports that are currently out there, we have not reached an agreement," Paxson said. "Right now, his commitment is covering the Western Conference Finals for TNT. When that series concludes, we will continue our dialogue.
"In the meantime, I will continue to talk to other candidates and review our options."