The Chicago Bulls have signed Josh Primo to an exhibit-10 contract, allowing the 21-year-old guard to join the Windy City Bulls.
Primo was the 12th overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft by the San Antonio Spurs, making him the youngest player in the league when he made his debut in October 2021. Since being waived by the Spurs, he has played only two games in the league and faced suspension by the NBA due to an investigation regarding indecent exposure linked to an incident in 2022.
In October 2022, the Spurs’ former team psychologist alleged that Primo, then 19, had exposed himself to her during private therapy sessions. This led to her filing a civil complaint against both Primo and the team, which was subsequently settled. In December 2023, the Texas district attorney’s office chose not to file charges, citing insufficient evidence.
Primo received a four-game suspension without pay from the NBA in September 2023 for “conduct detrimental to the league” after an independent investigation. The investigation concluded that he had “engaged in inappropriate and offensive behavior by exposing himself to women.”
“Primo insists that his actions were not intentional, and the league did not find evidence of any sexual or other misconduct beyond these brief exposures,” the league’s statement said. “However, this behavior does not align with league standards and warrants disciplinary action.”
On the day of his suspension, Primo signed a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, which was converted to a standard contract two months later. However, he struggled to find a place in the Clippers’ rotation, appearing in only two games last season before being waived in April.
During his single year at Alabama, where he was recognized for an All-Freshman performance, Primo averaged 5.8 points, 1.6 assists, and 2.3 rebounds per game as a rookie with San Antonio.
The Athletic was the first to report on the signing.
An exhibit-10 contract is a non-guaranteed agreement that allows a team to include a player in training camp. The Bulls intend to bring Primo into training camp for his rehabilitation from an injury, with no plans to add him to the first team, according to a league source.
Originally Published: October 3, 2024 at 12:30 p.m.
Chicago Bulls Sign Joshua Primo to Exhibit-10 Contract Amid Controversy
Background on Joshua Primo
Joshua Primo, a talented guard, was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the 2021 NBA Draft. Known for his scoring ability and versatility, Primo quickly gained attention for his potential in the league. However, his career has not been without challenges. Controversy arose during his time with the Spurs, leading to his release in late 2022 following an incident involving inappropriate behavior. This incident raised questions about his professionalism and maturity on and off the court.
Details of the Signings
On October 3, 2024, the Chicago Bulls officially signed Joshua Primo to an Exhibit-10 contract. This type of contract is typically used to provide players with a chance to showcase their skills during training camp, with the potential for a conversion to a standard NBA contract. According to reports from Darnell Mayberry of The Athletic, the Bulls are taking a calculated risk on Primo, hoping to tap into his potential while navigating the aftermath of his controversial past [[1](https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2024/10/bulls-sign-joshua-primo-to-exhibit-10-contract.html)].
What Is an Exhibit-10 Contract?
An Exhibit-10 contract is a one-year deal that allows NBA teams to sign players for training camp while providing the organization with some flexibility. Here are key features of this contract type:
- Non-Guaranteed Salary: The contract usually starts as a non-guaranteed deal, allowing the team to evaluate the player without committing financially.
- Bonus Opportunity: Players can earn a bonus if they are waived and then sign with the G League affiliate of the team.
- Training Camp Participation: Players get the opportunity to participate in the training camp, showcasing their skills in front of coaches and decision-makers.
- Potential Conversion: If a player performs well, the team may convert the contract to a standard NBA contract during the season.
The Chicago Bulls’ Strategy
The Bulls’ decision to sign Primo reflects their strategy to build a young and dynamic roster capable of competing in the Eastern Conference. By adding a player with Primo’s skill set, the Bulls hope to enhance their backcourt depth and scoring options. The team is looking to strike a balance between developing young talent and maintaining competitive vigor.
Assessing the Risks
While the signing has potential benefits, it also comes with risks. Given Primo’s past controversies, the Bulls face scrutiny regarding their choice. Key considerations include:
- Reputation Management: The franchise must navigate public perception and demonstrate a commitment to accountability, particularly in light of the incidents that led to his release from the Spurs.
- Team Culture: Integrating a player with a controversial history requires careful management to ensure team cohesion and morale.
- Performance Pressure: Primo will face pressure to perform at a high level, proving to fans and critics alike that he deserves this second chance in the NBA.
Potential Benefits for the Bulls
Signing Joshua Primo to an Exhibit-10 contract also presents several potential benefits for the Bulls:
- Upside Potential: Primo is still young and has displayed moments of brilliance during his time in the league. His scoring ability and playmaking skills could provide a significant boost to the Bulls’ offensive dynamics.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The non-guaranteed nature of the Exhibit-10 contract allows the Bulls to evaluate Primo without making a heavy financial commitment upfront.
- Trade Value: If Primo performs well, he could increase his trade value, providing the Bulls with more options as the season progresses.
What Fans Are Saying
The fan response to Primo’s signing has been mixed. Some fans are optimistic about his potential contributions, while others are skeptical regarding the implications of his past controversies:
“I think this could be a great move if he’s matured since his time with the Spurs. We need more scoring options!”
“Bringing in someone with such a controversial background is risky. We need players who embody the Bulls’ values!”
Practical Tips for Following the Bulls This Season
If you’re a fan looking to stay updated on the Chicago Bulls and Joshua Primo, consider these practical tips:
- Follow Local Sports News: Websites and social media accounts dedicated to Chicago sports provide timely updates and analyses.
- Engage with Fan Communities: Online forums and fan groups can offer insights and lively discussions about player performances and team strategies.
- Watch Preseason Games: Preseason games are an excellent opportunity to see how Primo fits into the team’s system and to evaluate his progress.
Case Studies: Other Players Who Overcame Controversy
History shows that players have successfully turned their careers around after facing controversies. Here are a few notable examples:
| Player | Controversy | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Kobe Bryant | Legal Issues in 2003 | Went on to become an NBA legend and won 5 championships |
| Michael Vick | Dog Fighting Charges | Returned to the NFL and became a Pro Bowler again |
| Josh Gordon | Substance Abuse Issues | Despite setbacks, made multiple comebacks in the NFL |
Conclusion
The Chicago Bulls’ decision to sign Joshua Primo to an Exhibit-10 contract represents a bold move as the team looks to bolster its roster while managing the fallout from the guard’s controversial history. As the season unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see how this decision affects the team’s dynamics and Primo’s professional journey.
