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After six seasons as Chicago Bulls head coach, Billy Donovan has decided to step down from his role, the team announced Tuesday.
The Bulls, who fired Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Arturas Karnisovas and general manager Marc Eversley two weeks ago, wanted Donovan back in the fold. But Donovan had an option in his contract for next season and opted out, according to ESPN.
“After a series of thoughtful and extensive discussions with ownership regarding the future of the organization, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Chicago Bulls to allow the search process to unfold. I believe it is in the best interest of the Bulls to allow the new leader to build the staff as they see fit. My gratitude to this community and this organization is permanent,” Donovan said in a statement.
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Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan reacts during the first half against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas on April 12, 2026. (Kevin Jairaj/Imagn Images)
“I owe so much to my players and staff over the past six years. You have all worked side by side with me, day in and day out, to drive the Bulls organization forward. And a huge thank you to Bulls fans, your energy, passion and unwavering support provided a home court advantage that is generally unmatched around the league.”
Team owner Jerry Reinsdorf said he wanted Donovan to return for another season.
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Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan talks with guard Mac McClung during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas on April 12, 2026. (Kevin Jairaj/Imagn Images)
“Billy Donovan is one of the finest people and coaches I’ve had the privilege of knowing and working with. He brought class and genuine care to this organization that made a real impact on people. We wanted Billy to continue as our head coach — there was never any doubt about that,” Reinsdorf said in a statement released by the team.
“However, through honest conversations, we all agreed that giving our new Head of Basketball Operations the right to build his staff was the most important thing for the future of this franchise. That’s the kind of person Billy is – he put the Bulls first. We are deeply grateful for everything he has given to this organization.”
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Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan reacts during the second half of a game at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois on April 5, 2026. (Kamil Krzaczynski/Imagn Images)
Donovan, 60, was elected to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025. The New York native wants to continue his coaching career, according to ESPN’s report.
In six seasons with the Bulls, he went 226-256 and made the playoffs once, in the 2021-22 season, when the Bulls lost in five games. Prior to coaching the Bulls, Donovan coached the Oklahoma City Thunder for five seasons, going 243-157 and making the playoffs all five seasons.
