Doug Collins could be next Bulls coach

By K.C. Johnson | Tribune reporter
8:42 AM CDT, May 29, 2008

Six weeks ago Thursday, shortly after firing interim coach Jim Boylan, general manager John Paxson talked about hiring someone who passionately resonated with players and fans.

How about Doug Collins?

Sources confirmed the former Bulls coach could be poised to become the new Bulls coach. Collins coached the Bulls from 1986-89 and, as recently as two weeks ago, talked about not wanting to leave his TNT broadcasting job and the family life it afforded him.


But Collins' extremely close relationship with Paxson, friendship with team Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, who fired him, and the Bulls winning the draft lottery have changed his mind, sources said.

KTAR-620 AM in Phoenix, which is the Suns' flagship station, first reported the story.

It's unclear whether Collins would join the Bulls as the head coach or as a lead, veteran assistant to one of the many younger coaches Paxson also has interviewed.

Paxson suggested hiring Collins as an assistant to then-coach Bill Cartwright in 2003. Cartwright declined.

Paxson, according to sources, first contacted Collins about the job shortly after firing Boylan. At that time, Collins gave indications he didn't want to return to coaching.

Collins, known for his fiery, passionate demeanor on the sidelines, was fired in 1989 after taking the Bulls to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time in 13 years. The Benton, Ill., native, who starred at Illinois State, later coached the Pistons and Wizards.

Collins' career record is 332-287.

pheonix radio guy (who's supposed to be legit) broke the news yesterday...