The Chicago Bulls have reportedly added another name to their head coaching search, with BYU head coach Kevin Young emerging as a candidate for the role. According to reports, the Bulls have held early conversations with Young as they continue looking for a replacement for Billy Donovan, who stepped down in April after six seasons in charge. Chicago has already been linked with several other coaching candidates, including Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn and Cleveland Cavaliers associate head coach Johnnie Bryant.
Young has spent the past two seasons leading BYU, where he posted a 49-22 record and guided the Cougars to two NCAA Tournament appearances. His first season was especially impressive, as BYU reached the Sweet 16 and later rewarded him with a multi-year contract extension.
The 2026 campaign ended earlier than expected for BYU, with the Cougars suffering a first-round NCAA Tournament upset against Texas. Still, the season included a major bright spot in freshman AJ Byantsa, who led the nation with 25.5 points per game and strengthened his case as a possible top pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.
For Young, the Bulls job would represent a return to the NBA. Before joining BYU in 2024, he worked his way up the Phoenix Suns coaching staff and became one of the league’s most highly paid assistants. His NBA experience also includes time with the Philadelphia 76ers and several years coaching in the NBA G League with Utah, Iowa and Delaware.
Chicago’s coaching search appears to be wide-ranging. In addition to Young, Quinn and Bryant, the Bulls have been connected to Charlotte Hornets assistant Lamar Skeeter, Portland Trail Blazers interim coach Tiago Splitter, Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori, Oklahoma City Thunder assistant Dave Bliss, former New Orleans Pelicans interim coach James Borrego and Bulls assistant Wes Unseld Jr.
Another previously mentioned candidate, Sean Sweeney, is no longer available after reportedly taking the Orlando Magic head coaching job.
The Bulls are entering an important offseason as they attempt to reset their direction after Donovan’s departure. With a mix of college and NBA assistants being considered, Chicago’s next hire could reveal whether the franchise wants a fresh developmental voice or a coach with deeper NBA bench experience.