Clippers coach Vinny Del Negro thankful for first coaching opportunity with Bulls

Clippers head coach Vinny Del Negro returned to where his coaching career began as Los Angeles defeated the Bulls, 94-89, in Chicago on Tuesday.

Del Negro led the Bulls to an 82-82 record in two seasons with Chicago from 2008 to 2010 and appreciates the opportunity he had with the team.

Del Negro told Scott Powers of ESPN Chicago that he "learned a lot" and is "very fortunate" and "very grateful" for the opportunity that he had with the Bulls.

Del Negro also told Powers he's gotten better ever year as a coach but still has room to grow as his career continues.

Chicago was Del Negro's first coaching job as he served as an assistant general manager with the Phoenix Suns before joining the Bulls.

Del Negro is in his second-year as head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers and his team has won seven games in a row to improve to 15-6 on the year. The Clippers are in first place in the Pacific division and fourth in the Western Conference standings.