The Chicago Bulls announced today the hiring of Vinny Del Negro as the 17th head coach in franchise history. In accordance with club policy, terms of the contract were not announced.

Del Negro, 41, comes to the Bulls after serving as the Assistant General Manager for the Phoenix Suns. Prior to his promotion to Assistant General Manager, he served as the team?s Director of Player Personnel. Before making the transition to the Suns front office, Del Negro spent three seasons (2003-06) as a color analyst for the Suns broadcast teams. He has also served as an analyst for ESPN and the San Antonio Spurs.

?I am very pleased to name Vinny Del Negro as the next head coach of the Chicago Bulls.  I have gone through the process of talking to many people since the season ended which has allowed me to hear the basketball philosophies of different candidates, and I felt very good about many of the interviews,? said Chicago Bulls Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations John Paxson.  

?Vinny distinguished himself from the group and I feel I have been able to identify a person who has the strong ability to lead, communicate and bring a fresh, energized approach to our young basketball team.  Vinny will be able to draw from his experiences in basketball as a player, scout and executive, and I am confident that he will be successful in this new role.?