Billy Donovan Resigns as Chicago Bulls Head Coach After Six Seasons

Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan has stepped down after six seasons with the franchise, opting not to return for the 2026-27 campaign despite the organization’s desire to retain him. The decision comes amid a front-office overhaul that saw president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf fire executive vice president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas and general manager Marc Eversley near the end of the 2025-26 season.

Donovan, 60, announced his resignation following “a series of thoughtful and extensive discussions with ownership regarding the future of the organization,” according to the team’s official statement released on April 21, 2026. He emphasized that his departure was intended to allow the incoming basketball operations leadership the freedom to shape the roster and coaching staff as they see fit.

“I believe it is in the best interest of the Bulls to allow the new leader to build out the staff as they see fit,” Donovan said in the team release. “My gratitude for this community and this organization is permanent.”

The Bulls confirmed Donovan’s resignation via their official social media channels, sharing a video statement from the coach accompanied by the caption: “Billy Donovan is stepping away as head coach.” President and CEO Michael Reinsdorf acknowledged the mutual agreement, stating that while the organization clearly wanted Donovan to return, they respected his decision to step aside during the transition period.

During his tenure in Chicago, Donovan compiled a regular-season record of 226-256 (.469 winning percentage). His time with the Bulls marked his third NBA head coaching stint, following five seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder (2015-2020) and preceding roles as an assistant at Kentucky and head coach at Marshall and Florida.

Before entering the NBA coaching ranks, Donovan built a legendary collegiate career, primarily with the Florida Gators from 1996 to 2015. There, he led the program to two NCAA Division I championships (2006, 2007), four Final Four appearances, six SEC regular-season titles, and four SEC tournament championships. His accomplishments earned him multiple SEC Coach of the Year honors and the John R. Wooden Legends of Coaching Award in 2010.

As a player, Donovan was a 68th overall pick in the third round of the 1987 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz. He played two seasons professionally, spending time with the Wyoming Wildcatters (CBA), New York Knicks, and Rapid City Thrillers (CBA) before transitioning into coaching.

The Bulls’ decision to part ways with Donovan places Chicago among several NBA franchises seeking new head coaching leadership this offseason. Reports indicate the Milwaukee Bucks and New Orleans Pelicans are also in the market for coaches, creating a competitive landscape for available candidates.

Despite stepping away from Chicago, Donovan expressed continued passion for coaching and is expected to draw interest from other organizations seeking an experienced bench leader. His NBA coaching record includes playoff appearances in all five seasons with the Thunder and consistent postseason contention during his Florida tenure.

Reinsdorf reiterated the organization’s respect for Donovan’s choice, noting that the front office had engaged in “open dialogue about the importance of respecting the process of bringing in new basketball operations leadership.” The mutual agreement allowed Donovan to depart on fine terms while enabling the Bulls to pursue a clean slate under new management.

The timing of Donovan’s resignation comes shortly after the conclusion of the 2025-26 NBA season, giving the Bulls’ incoming basketball operations team ample time to identify and hire a replacement before the onset of free agency and the NBA draft.

As Chicago begins its search for a new head coach, the franchise looks to redirect its trajectory following six seasons of inconsistent results under Donovan. The organization now faces the task of identifying a candidate capable of implementing a sustainable long-term vision while maximizing the potential of its current roster.

For ongoing updates on the Chicago Bulls’ coaching search and other NBA developments, fans are encouraged to follow official team channels and trusted sports news outlets.

What are your thoughts on Billy Donovan’s departure from the Bulls and who should Chicago target as his replacement? Share your opinions in the comments below.