Billy Donovan to Leave Bulls? Matas Buzelis Urges Coach to Stay | NBA News

CHICAGO – As speculation swirls around his potential interest in the recently vacated North Carolina coaching position, Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan’s future with the team remains uncertain. The Bulls effectively signaled a rebuild in February, dismantling much of their core after similar moves last season involving Zach LaVine and, previously, DeMar DeRozan. Amidst this organizational shift, a key piece of the Bulls’ future, rookie forward Matas Buzelis, has publicly expressed his strong support for Donovan, emphasizing the coach’s pivotal role in his development.

Buzelis, a Lithuanian prospect drafted by Chicago, offered effusive praise for Donovan, stating, “He is everything to me!” according to a report from the Chicago Sun-Times. “He’s a mentor. He’s someone I admire as a person, as a human being. He’s a pillar for me. He pushes me to my limits and he will continue to push me until I can’t take it anymore. I can never thank someone like that enough. He always tells you the truth. It’s hard to do, especially in this league, to have someone in your corner who will advise you everything you need to hear.”

The Bulls are now focused on building around young players like Josh Giddey and Buzelis, and the rookie’s endorsement underscores the importance of continuity as the team navigates a rebuilding phase. Donovan, for his part, has indicated he intends to discuss his future with team management at the end of the season. Reports indicate Donovan is frustrated with the team’s recent trajectory, particularly given their position as a potential play-in tournament contender before the mid-season roster overhaul.

Buzelis elaborated on the impact Donovan has had on his mindset, saying, “It might sound crazy, but it’s the truth: he’s teaching me how to be a winner, and I know everyone will say, ‘You guys don’t win a lot of games,’ but he’s taught me the qualities it takes to win, and that’s all you can inquire for.” He added, “Even when he takes me out after a few minutes of the game, it’s just to tell me what I need to do, what I need to improve on, and for someone like me, I know my time will come.”

Despite a recent loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, Buzelis conveyed the team’s commitment to finishing the season strong. “I’m going to keep working hard, keep pushing everyone. We’re not going to mail these last games in. We’re going to try to learn, I’m going to keep learning, and that’s it.”

The situation highlights the delicate balance facing the Bulls organization. Donovan, who has a history of success as a college coach – leading the University of Florida to consecutive national championships in 2006 and 2007 – is a proven leader. Though, his tenure in Chicago has been marked by limited playoff success, with only one postseason series win to his name. The Bulls’ decision to trade away established veterans suggests a long-term commitment to a rebuild, and it remains to be seen whether Donovan has the patience to oversee that process.

The North Carolina job, which opened earlier this week following the departure of Hubert Davis, presents an attractive opportunity for Donovan to return to the collegiate ranks. The program boasts a rich tradition and a passionate fan base, and the potential for immediate success is significant. However, leaving the Bulls mid-rebuild would also mean abandoning a project he has already invested considerable time and energy into.

Donovan addressed the speculation surrounding the North Carolina position in Philadelphia, stating his focus remains on the Bulls and the team’s current roster. According to a report from The Recent York Times, he emphasized his commitment to evaluating the team’s progress and building a competitive future in Chicago. This statement, however, did not entirely dismiss the possibility of exploring other options.

The Bulls’ decision to trade Zach LaVine to the Sacramento Kings in February 2025, as reported by CBS Sports, signaled a clear shift in direction for the franchise. This move, coupled with the earlier departure of DeMar DeRozan, paved the way for younger players like Giddey and Buzelis to take on more prominent roles. The team’s current trajectory hinges on the development of these young players and Donovan’s ability to guide them through the challenges of a rebuilding process.

The situation is further complicated by the Bulls’ ownership, with reports suggesting a lack of consistent vision and investment. This has created a challenging environment for Donovan, who has consistently sought to maximize the potential of the rosters he has been given. Despite these challenges, Donovan’s coaching acumen is widely respected throughout the NBA, and he remains a highly sought-after commodity.

As the Bulls approach the end of the 2025-26 season, the question of Donovan’s future looms large. His relationship with young players like Buzelis, coupled with his proven track record as a coach, suggests he could be a valuable asset in the team’s rebuilding efforts. However, the allure of returning to college basketball and the potential for greater success at North Carolina may prove too tempting to resist. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Donovan’s next move and the future of the Chicago Bulls.

The Bulls will conclude their season with a series of games against Eastern Conference opponents. Their next game is scheduled for April 1st against the Miami Heat at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida (7:30 PM ET / 01:30 AM UTC April 2nd). The outcome of these games, while unlikely to impact the Bulls’ playoff chances, will provide a valuable opportunity for the team to evaluate its progress and build momentum for the future.

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