Joakim Noah is an extremely charitable person, as evidenced by his Noah's Arc Foundation, which "helps children develop a stronger sense of self and promotes positive, peaceful self-expression through sports and art." But even he refused to participate in a charitable event sponsored by the Bulls because he's grown tired of their front office.
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Noah, who is one of the more charitable players in the entire NBA, had become so annoyed with (General Manager Gar) Forman that he actually turned down a chance to help Bulls Charities earlier this season. According to the player, Noah was approached by Leslie Forman – Gar’s wife, as well as the VP of Bulls Charities – to take place in “some auction where he would have to ride around town with the winner or something like that."
Noah didn’t like the way he was approached and pressured, so flatly said no.
“Not like Jo at all," the player said.
His refusal of the charity cause could be an indication of Noah's disdain toward the front office. An anonymous player told the Times that Noah, an upcoming free agent, told everyone he won't be returning to the franchise because he can't put up with his treatment any longer.
Noah has been a member of the Bulls since 2011 when he was selected in the first round. He was an All-Star in 2012-13 and 2013-14, but his play hasn't been great the last two seasons. During the 2014-15 season, Noah averaged 7.2 points and 9.6 rebounds, his lowest numbers since his second year in the league.
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This season, Noah battled through injuries and only averaged 21.9 minutes (his lowest since being a rookie) in 29 games. The Bulls hired Fred Hoiberg this season who said Noah told him he'd be fine coming off the bench. Noah disputed that and said it wasn't his idea.
The entire 2015-16 season for Noah was toxic, so it's understandable why he's grown frustrated with the franchise. He's still wanted, as the Chicago Tribune reported in April, but it's likely we'll see Noah in a new jersey for the first time in his career next season.
