The Chicago Bulls announced Friday they plan to build their new practice facility on a site next to the United Center. The Bulls have practiced at the Sheri L. Berto Center in Deerfield since 1992.

Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf says the current facility, 25 miles north of the United Center, had been a problem.

“Our current practice facility presented some limitations for us and as we looked to invest in the team’s future, we recognized the importance of also investing in our community,” Reinsdorf said.

Comcast sports reporter, Mark Schanowski, is the host the Bulls pre- and post-game shows. He says the staff has been trying to find a way to make things easier for players.   

“One of the big detriments in having the facility out in Deerfield was that commute on game day,” Schanowski said. “It was right in the heart of rush hour, guys were stuck in traffic and the worst thing when you’re trying to prepare for an important game is to arrive at your workplace being frustrated because you just sat in traffic for two hours.”

Susan Goodenow, vice president of branding and communications for the Bulls, says they plan on bringing all staff from the Berto Center with them to the new building.

The 55,000 square-foot facility is scheduled to be open for the 2014-2015 season.