Only One NBA "Elder Statesman" Remains: Chicago Legend Ends Illustrious Playing Career, Immediately Embraces New Bulls Role!

Taj Gibson is set to join the Chicago Bulls' coaching staff as an assistant coach, working under Brazilian tactician Tiago Splitter.

For the New York-born former USC standout, this marks a symbolic return to the arena where his NBA journey began in 2009.

Drafted 26th overall by Chicago in 2009, Gibson earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team in his debut season. He spent eight full seasons with the Bulls, where he was renowned for his exceptional hustle, defensive prowess, and toughness.

After his tenure in Illinois, Gibson became synonymous with reliability, a player every locker room coveted. Throughout his illustrious career, he donned the jerseys of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Minnesota Timberwolves, New York Knicks, Washington Wizards, Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets, and Memphis Grizzlies.

He played a total of 1,012 regular-season NBA games, averaging 8.3 points and 5.7 rebounds per contest.

In his final active season, Gibson played 10 games for the Memphis Grizzlies, retiring as the third-oldest player in the NBA. At the start of last season, only the perennial stars LeBron James and Chris Paul were older than him.

Chris Paul has since retired, while LeBron continues his career in Philadelphia.

By transitioning to coaching with the team where he left his most significant mark, Taj Gibson brings immense experience and a strong work ethic to the young Chicago squad, imparting lessons learned over nearly two decades on NBA courts to the next generation.