Donovan steps down after six seasons with Chicago Bulls
Hope
Billy Donovan has stepped down as head coach of the National Basketball Association (NBA) side Chicago Bulls after six seasons, the team confirmed on Tuesday.
The Bulls said the 60-year-old coach chose to step aside following internal discussions about the team’s future direction, particularly after recent front office changes.
In a statement released by the team, Donovan said the decision came after “thoughtful and extensive discussions” with ownership.
“I believe it is in the best interest of the Bulls to allow new leadership to build out the staff as they see fit,” he said.
Donovan’s departure comes despite his consistent public stance that he remains passionate about coaching.
During his tenure, Donovan guided Chicago to just one playoff appearance, in the 2021–22 season, where the team finished sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 46–36 record before being eliminated in the first round by the Milwaukee Bucks.
In the following three seasons, the Bulls fell short of playoff qualification, exiting through the NBA Play-In Tournament each time.
The coaching change follows recent upheaval in the Bulls’ front office. The team also saw the departures of executives Arturas Karnisovas and Marc Eversley earlier this month.
Meanwhile, Donovan had signed a contract extension with the Bulls during the previous offseason, making his exit a strategic one rather than contractual decision.
