Following a disappointing season for the Chicago Bulls, the organization has officially parted ways with head coach Billy Donovan. The move signals a shift in direction for a front office that had reportedly seen enough to determine Donovan was no longer the right fit to lead the franchise forward.
Donovan had previously signed a contract extension in July 2025, the specific terms of which were kept under wraps by the Bulls’ leadership. However, league insiders have since revealed that the deal was intended to keep Donovan on the sidelines through the 2027-28 season, making this early exit a significant financial and structural decision for the club.
Donovan leaves the Windy City with a 226–256 regular-season record and a lone playoff victory in five tries. It is yet another setback for a franchise that once ruled the NBA as a global dynasty, but now finds itself mired in mediocrity despite Donovan’s extensive veteran experience.
Donovan issues statement following departure
Donovan released a statement reflecting on his 486-game tenure and his decision to move on. “I believe it is in the best interest of the Bulls to allow the new leadership to build out the staff as they see fit,” Donovan wrote via the team’s official website. “My gratitude for this community and this organization is permanent.”
The announcement leaves the Bulls’ front office in a state of transition as they begin the search for a new bench boss. While high-profile names like Doc Rivers—who recently parted ways with the Milwaukee Bucks—remain on the market, the Bulls appear poised to take their time in identifying the right successor to lead the next era of Chicago basketball.
What’s reportedly next for Donovan?
Though Donovan remained tight-lipped regarding his future, reports from BasketNews have already linked the veteran coach to the University of North Carolina. However, a return to the NBA sidelines shouldn’t be ruled out, as several franchises looking for a culture shift are expected to show significant interest in the former Florida Gators legend.
Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf expressed his appreciation for Donovan’s contributions to the franchise in a separate statement. “Billy Donovan is one of the finest people and coaches I have had the privilege of knowing and working with,” Reinsdorf said. “He brought a level of class and genuine care to this organization that made a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.”
