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Who Owns the Chicago Bulls?

Who Owns the Chicago Bulls? – The Chicago Bulls are one of the NBA’s most storied franchises, thanks in large part to the six championships won during the Michael Jordan era. Today, the team is owned by longtime sports executive Jerry Reinsdorf, who has served as Chairman and controlling owner since purchasing a majority stake in 1985. His son, Michael Reinsdorf, serves as President and Chief Executive Officer, handling day-to-day operations while Jerry maintains oversight as Chairman.

Current Ownership: Jerry Reinsdorf Is the Chairman and Controlling Owner

Jerry Reinsdorf remains the clear answer to “who owns the Chicago Bulls.” He holds the controlling interest in the franchise and has been its public face for more than four decades. According to the official Chicago Bulls staff directory on NBA.com, Reinsdorf is listed as Chairman, while his son Michael serves as President & Chief Executive Officer.

Reinsdorf first acquired a controlling stake in the team on March 11, 1985, as part of a syndicate that purchased the Bulls from previous owners. He initially secured a majority interest (approximately 57%, later increasing), ending an era of diffuse committee-style ownership. Today, Forbes estimates his ownership stake at around 40%, with the remainder held by other investors and limited partners typical of professional sports teams.

The Bulls are a privately held franchise, so exact ownership percentages beyond the controlling interest are not publicly disclosed in detail. However, all official team communications and NBA records continue to recognize Jerry Reinsdorf as the principal owner and Chairman.

History: How Jerry Reinsdorf Acquired the Chicago Bulls?

Before Reinsdorf’s arrival, the Bulls had a rocky early history. Founded in 1966 by Dick Klein, the team was sold to the Wirtz family (owners of the Chicago Blackhawks) in 1972. The Wirtz era was marked by tight budgets and limited success.

In 1985, Reinsdorf — already a successful real estate investor and owner of the Chicago White Sox — led a group that bought controlling interest in the Bulls. The deal valued the franchise far below today’s standards; reports indicate the controlling stake cost roughly $9.2 million as part of a larger transaction. This purchase came just one year after the Bulls drafted Michael Jordan with the third overall pick in 1984.

Reinsdorf quickly installed Jerry Krause as general manager and began rebuilding the organization. The move to the new United Center (which he co-developed with the Wirtz family) in 1994 further modernized the franchise both on and off the court.

Jerry Reinsdorf’s Impact: Six NBA Championships and a Chicago Sports Icon

Under Reinsdorf’s ownership, the Bulls transformed from a struggling expansion team into a global brand. Key milestones include:

  • Drafting and developing Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Horace Grant
  • Hiring Phil Jackson as head coach in 1989
  • Winning six NBA titles (1991–1993 and 1996–1998)
  • Creating one of the most dominant dynasties in NBA history
  • Moving the team into the United Center, now a premier NBA venue

Reinsdorf’s business approach emphasized profitability alongside on-court success. While some fans and media criticized decisions after the Jordan era (particularly the decision not to retain Phil Jackson long-term), the franchise’s valuation has skyrocketed under his watch.

Current Team Valuation and Business Performance

The Chicago Bulls are now worth approximately $6 billion according to Forbes’ 2025 NBA team valuations — ranking No. 6 among all NBA franchises. The team generated $434 million in revenue during the 2024-25 season with $160 million in operating income.

The United Center, home of the Bulls (and co-owned with the Blackhawks), remains a major revenue driver through premium seating, sponsorships, and events. Reinsdorf’s dual ownership of the Bulls and White Sox has made him one of the most influential figures in Chicago sports for decades.

Michael Reinsdorf’s Role as President & CEO

While Jerry Reinsdorf retains ultimate authority as Chairman, his son Michael has taken on increasing operational responsibility. Michael Reinsdorf serves as President and Chief Executive Officer and has been vocal about the need for more direct ownership involvement in basketball decisions.

In April 2026, following significant front-office changes (including the departure of Executive Vice President Artūras Karnišovas and General Manager Marc Eversley), Michael Reinsdorf publicly stated that the organization needed to “enter an era of hands-on ownership.” He emphasized collaboration with longtime advisor John Paxson and others while remaining open to evolving the front-office structure. The current basketball operations leadership includes Executive Vice President Bryson Graham.

Recent Developments (2026): Hands-On Ownership Approach

The 2025-26 season brought notable transitions. After a disappointing campaign, ownership made sweeping changes to the basketball operations staff. Michael Reinsdorf’s increased visibility and comments signaled a shift toward more active ownership participation in basketball matters — a departure from the more hands-off approach some critics attributed to the organization in recent years.

Despite the changes, the Reinsdorf family’s commitment to the franchise remains steady. Jerry Reinsdorf, now 90 years old, continues to serve as Chairman, while Michael leads daily operations.

Jerry Reinsdorf’s Broader Sports Legacy

Reinsdorf’s influence extends beyond the Bulls. He has owned the Chicago White Sox since 1981 and remains one of only a handful of individuals to own major league teams in two different sports. He played a significant role in NBA labor negotiations and revenue-sharing agreements throughout the 1990s and 2000s.

His business background in real estate and tax law helped shape a pragmatic, profit-focused approach to sports ownership that has kept both Chicago franchises competitive in their respective markets for decades.

Key Facts About Chicago Bulls Ownership

  • Chairman & Controlling Owner: Jerry Reinsdorf (since 1985)
  • President & CEO: Michael Reinsdorf
  • Acquisition Year: 1985 (controlling stake)
  • Estimated Team Value: $6 billion (Forbes 2025)
  • Championships Under Current Ownership: 6 (1991–1993, 1996–1998)
  • Home Arena: United Center (co-owned with Chicago Blackhawks)

Where to Verify Current Ownership Information

For the most authoritative and up-to-date details on Chicago Bulls ownership and leadership, visit the official sources below:

Ownership of professional sports teams can evolve through sales of minority stakes or estate planning, but as of mid-2026, the Reinsdorf family’s control of the Chicago Bulls remains firmly in place.