The Chicago Bulls announced Tuesday that head coach Billy Donovan is stepping down after six seasons. Donovan, who led the team to a 31-51 record this season, cited discussions with ownership about the organization's future in his decision. The move allows the Bulls to conduct a fresh search for front office and coaching leadership.
Billy Donovan issued a statement thanking Bulls ownership, players, staff and fans. “After a series of thoughtful and extensive discussions with ownership regarding the future of the organization, I have decided to step away as the head coach of the Chicago Bulls to allow the search process to unfold,” Donovan said. He added that it is in the best interest of the Bulls to let the new leader build the staff, expressing permanent gratitude to Jerry and Michael Reinsdorf, whom he called great owners, and praising fans for their unmatched support. “My gratitude for this community and this organization is permanent. Thank you, Jerry (Reinsdorf) and Michael (Reinsdorf) for giving me this opportunity and more importantly, for the relationship that has been forged. I was so blessed to be able to work with such great owners. I owe so much to my players and staff over the last 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.” Donovan finished his Bulls tenure with a 226-256 record, including one winning season and a single playoff appearance in 2022, when Chicago lost in five games to the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round. The Bulls had wanted Donovan to return, but he exercised an option in his contract to depart. This follows the recent firing of executive vice president Artūras Karnišovas and general manager Marc Eversley earlier this month, positioning the franchise for a full rebuild in leadership ahead of next season. Sources told CBS Sports that Donovan wants to coach again and will be a head coach somewhere, with his Hall of Fame résumé from the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025 enhancing his appeal at both NBA and college levels.
