Longtime NBA forward Taj Gibson announced his retirement from professional basketball on Monday, ending a 17-year playing career that spanned eight different franchises, according to official team and league reports. Alongside his retirement, the 41-year-old New York native is immediately stepping into a coaching role, joining the Chicago Bulls as an assistant coach on the staff of head coach Tiago Splitter.
From 17-Year Playing Career to Bulls Coaching Staff
Gibson’s transition to the sidelines follows a brief 10-game stint with the Memphis Grizzlies during the previous season, which marked the final stop of his lengthy career. Drafted 26th overall by Chicago in the 2009 NBA Draft, Gibson spent his first eight professional seasons with the franchise, anchoring the frontcourt alongside Derrick Rose as the Bulls made deep postseason pushes. According to team announcements, Gibson spent time around the organization during the Las Vegas Summer League in July, laying the groundwork for his new career on Splitter’s bench.
“I can honestly say I gave this game everything I had,” Gibson wrote in a social media statement cited by ESPN. “I’m grateful for every moment, every teammate, every coach, and every person who believed in me.”
Deep Roots and Historical Connection in Chicago
Beyond his early tenure with the Bulls, Gibson returned to Chicago this past January to participate in the jersey retirement ceremony for former teammate Derrick Rose.
Over 17 NBA seasons, Gibson suited up for the Chicago Bulls, Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, New York Knicks, Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets, Detroit Pistons, and Memphis Grizzlies. He finished his playing career with averages of 8.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.0 block per game.
Roster Realignment Under Tiago Splitter
As Gibson trades his jersey for a clipboard, he joins a revamped coaching staff in Chicago. Head coach Tiago Splitter added several new faces to the bench for the upcoming campaign, bringing in Wes Unseld Jr. to return as an assistant alongside newcomers Blake Ahearn, Jamelle McMillan, Rex Kalamian, and Jonah Herscu.
Related reading
