The Chicago Bulls are building beyond top NBA Draft pick Caleb Wilson. The franchise and head coach Tiago Splitter added to their 2026-27 roster Monday. By bringing in former draft lottery selection Jordan Hawkins.

The former New Orleans Pelicans first rounder agreed to a two-way contract Monday, with league insider Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype revealing the move. But Hawkins will link back up with a familiar name.

“Hawkins reunites with Bulls executive Bryson Graham. Who was a part of the front office with the New Orleans Pelicans when Hawkins was drafted 14th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft,” Scotto posted on the social media website X, formerly Twitter.

The 24-year-old arrived to the league following a stellar career at UConn. Including earning All-Big East honors in 2023, plus winning the national title that season under Dan Hurley.

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Hawkins played his first three seasons with the Pelicans, but started just one game in the 2025-26 season. He eventually landed with the Memphis Grizzlies on Sept. 8 in a multi-player deal that also involved former Bulls star Taj Gibson landing in New Orleans.

However, Hawkins' Grizzlies experiment became short-lived, as he and the franchise agreed to part ways back on Oct. 2. That move allowed Hawkins to explore other options once he cleared the NBA waiver wire.

So now he'll add a mix of youth and experience for Splitter and his team. That includes teaming with the prized North Carolina star and top five lottery pick Wilson.

Chicago severed ties with previous coach Billy Donovan following a 31-51 season. Donovan spent six seasons with the team.