Bulls trying to add local D-League team in time for 2016-17 season

The Bulls finally could develop strong ties with the NBA Development League.

The team confirmed it's trying to establish a franchise that would play at the Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates starting in the 2016-17 season. The village board must approve the plan at a Nov. 2 meeting.

"Playing in the NBA's official minor league, a Bulls NBADL team will create tremendous opportunities to promote the game in our surrounding communities, extend the reach of the Bulls and deepen our integration with the community," the team said in a statement. "(It will also) establish a developmental program that will benefit our younger players in an atmosphere consistent with our NBA program."

Beyond the business impact, that last line is why the possibility excites the Bulls. Historically, the Bulls have been averse to using the league, letting their affiliation with the Iowa Energy lapse years ago.

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