Jul 17, 2026 6:56 PM

A former Bulls front office executive has been hired by the famous NBA commissioner.

Arturas Karnisovas served as the Chicago Bulls' executive vice president of basketball operations from April 2020 through April 2026. 

Karnisovas' tenure was a disappointing one as he finished with a 224-254 record including a playoff mark of 3-7.

The former Bulls executive, of Lithuanian heritage, served as general manager of the Denver Nuggets before coming to Chicago but was unable to recreate the same magic he found in the Mile High City.

Earlier this week, it was announced that Karnisovas had been hired by NBA commissioner Adam Silver to a major role that will allow him to spread his love for the game across the pond and beyond. 

Related stories

Oct 2, 2023; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas during Chicago Bulls Media Day at Advocate Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Karnisovas Given Consulting Role 

Karnisovas has been named as a consultant for building NBA Europe, a project designed to expand the footprint of the overseas.

The former Bulls exec. will be given an opportunity to advise Adam Silver and his colleagues on numerous topics including European league rules and potential crossover opportunities between Europe and North America. 

Karnisovas will reportedly work alongside basketball regulatory bodies in hopes of building a stronger partnership. 

His appointment comes at a time when international stars like Luka Doncic and Victor Wembanyama have become household names amid skyrocketing popularity for the NBA worldwide. 

Experience Helped Karnisovas Land Job 

Carnisovas' experience in the Nuggets and Bulls' front offices helped him land the job according to Elias Schuster of Sports Illustrated. 

His international experience and knowledge of European competition also factored in, Schuster wrote.

"Karnisovas is particularly well-equipped to handle such responsibilities," the SI writer said.

"A Lithuanian native who played for their national team and went pro, he has long been touted for his connections overseas and understanding of the Euro competition." 

Karnisovas played for his native country's national team before moving on to experience life in the NBA. 

"Karnisovas is particularly well-equipped to handle such responsibilities," Schuster said of his new job description.

"A Lithuanian native who played for their national team and went pro, he has long been touted for his connections overseas and understanding of the Euro competition." 

Karnisovas' Era and the Bulls' New Hopes 

Karnisovas won't be remembered fondly for his time in the Windy City but he managed to keep Chicago relevant in the Eastern Conference. 

Bryson Graham has filled in for Karnisovas and inspired hope with his draft selections of Caleb Wilson and Dailyn Swain, paving the way for a new era of Bulls basketball.

Graham has far bigger aspirations, but for now, Bulls fans will settle for progress and a front seat to what looks like a compelling show featuring Wilson and his teammates this coming season. 




Comments
anonymous profile image
Powered by RoundtableBuilt on infrastructure designed for real-time media. Learn more at RTB.io.© Roundtable 2026. By using this site you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy