Watch CBS News

After Firing, Tom Thibodeau Gets Support From President Obama, Rahm Emanuel

(CBS) After being fired as Bulls coach on Thursday morning, Tom Thibodeau received support from both President Barack Obama and Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel.

During a question-and-answer session on climate change on his recently created @POTUS account, Obama took the time to respond to a question about Thibodeau's exit from Chicago, which he led to playoff appearances in each of his five seasons in charge. Thibodeau was 255-139 during his Bulls tenure.

Bernstein: Jerry Reinsdorf hammers Tom Thibodeau on way out

Obama said he "loved" Thibodeau and that he did a "great job."

Emanuel also is a big fan of the Bulls, and of Thibodeau. The mayor was on the Near West Side to discuss accelerating the city's graffiti blasting operations when reporters asked him about Thibodeau's firing.

"There's a lot I'd like to unburden myself on, but I'll say this: I've been in regular conversation over the past weeks with Coach T, and I think he's a great coach," he said. "You know what? I have a blaster I want to use right now."

Emanuel wouldn't specify at whom he'd like to aim the graffiti blaster -- a high pressure hose that sprays an abrasive mix of baking soda and water -- but it was clear he's unhappy with the Bulls' front office.

Podcast

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.