The Chicago Bulls see a high-ranking agent withdraw from their president interview process during front office search.
The Chicago Bulls’ search for a new head of basketball operations encountered an early setback as a prominent candidate withdrew from consideration during the initial round of interviews.
According to Shams Charania of ESPN, co-head of CAA’s basketball division Austin Brown informed the Bulls that he would not pursue the position. The update was shared Friday on X, formerly known as Twitter, as Chicago continues its process to identify a new leader for its front office.
“The Bulls were informed that the co-head of CAA’s basketball division, Austin Brown, has elected not to pursue their head of basketball operations position, sources tell ESPN. Bulls officials started first round of interviews with candidates on Monday.”
Brown’s decision comes during a week of significant organizational change in Chicago. The Bulls recently parted ways with lead executive Artūras Karnišovas, the architect of the team’s current roster, following another disappointing season. Head coach Billy Donovan also departed the franchise this week, further signaling a full-scale reset across both the front office and coaching staff.
Bulls overhaul underway as front office search intensifies
Chicago finished the 2025–26 season with a 31-51 record, placing 12th in the Eastern Conference and missing both the Play-In Tournament and the playoffs. The lack of progress contributed to increased pressure on ownership to make sweeping changes.
The organization began its first round of interviews earlier this week, aiming to identify a candidate capable of reshaping its long-term direction. The role is expected to oversee roster construction, coaching decisions and overall basketball strategy.
Brown’s withdrawal narrows the pool at an early stage, though the Bulls are expected to continue evaluating a wide range of candidates. The position represents a critical hire as Chicago attempts to regain stability and competitiveness.
With both its front office leadership and coaching situation now in flux, the Bulls enter the offseason facing one of the most pivotal stretches in franchise history.