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Billy Donovan steps away from Chicago Bulls coaching role

Apr 21, 2026, 2:00 AM30
(Update: Apr 21, 2026, 6:07 PM)
American college basketball player, professional basketball player, point guard, college basketball coach, NCAA Tournament championship coach
city and county seat of Cook County, Illinois, United States of America

Billy Donovan steps away from Chicago Bulls coaching role

  • Billy Donovan has announced his resignation as head coach of the Chicago Bulls after six seasons with the team.
  • The Bulls struggled during Donovan's tenure, finishing last season with a 31-51 record and only achieving one playoff appearance.
  • Ownership and Donovan agreed that it was best for the future of the organization to allow for new leadership in the coaching staff.
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In the United States, Billy Donovan has resigned as the head coach of the Chicago Bulls after six seasons with the franchise. The Bulls announced this decision shortly after concluding a disappointing season, finishing with a record of 31-51. During Donovan's time with the Bulls, he recorded a total of 226 wins against 252 losses, leading the team to only one playoff appearance, in 2022. Sports analysts noted the franchise's ongoing struggles, as they have not had a winning season since Donovan took over and have failed to reach the 50-win mark since the 2014-15 season under former coach Tom Thibodeau. Ownership of the Bulls expressed their desire for Donovan to continue, but discussions led him to conclude that stepping down would be in the best interest of the organization. Donovan mentioned that he wanted to allow the new head of basketball operations the freedom to assemble their coaching staff, which signifies a shift in the organizational structure. The Bulls had recently fired key executive figures, leading to speculation about a restructuring of the team's leadership. Donovan's coaching career is notable not only for his time in the NBA but also for his success in college basketball, where he won two NCAA championships with the University of Florida. His experience and accomplishments include a career record of 469-413 over 11 seasons with both the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Bulls. His expected career move following the Bulls will likely continue to be a focus of conversation among sports fans and analysts alike. Jerry Reinsdorf, the Bulls' principal owner, praised Donovan for his professionalism and commitment to the organization, stating that he had always put the team's interests first. Donovan previously signed a contract extension in June 2025, which added to the surprise of his recent decision to leave. This development has raised questions about the future direction of the Bulls and who will be chosen to take over the head coaching role as they move forward with a new staff and strategy.

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