Tiago Splitter just gave Bulls fans a reason to cheer at Patrick Williams’ expense

It took only one game for Tiago Splitter to make the Patrick Williams decision Bulls fans have been waiting years for.

By Andrew Hanlon · Pippen Ain't Easy

Published: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 11:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Writer Andrew Hanlon views Tiago Splitter benching Patrick Williams as a positive sign of change for the Bulls.
Patrick Williams was a coach's decision DNP in Chicago's 43-point blowout loss to the Toronto Raptors.
Williams was the only active player among 14 dressed Bulls who did not play in the game.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Chicago Bulls head coach Tiago Splitter benched forward Patrick Williams as a DNP-CD in the team's 43-point season-opening loss to the Toronto Raptors. Chicago dressed 14 players for the game, and Williams was the only available player who did not see the floor, even during extensive garbage time.

Writer Andrew Hanlon argues that Splitter's decision signals a necessary shift away from Williams under the new front office led by Bryson Graham. Williams, selected fourth overall in 2020, spent six seasons with the team under previous head coach Billy Donovan.

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Tiago Splitter just gave Bulls fans a reason to cheer at Patrick Williams’ expense

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