Billy Donovan is leaving as head coach of the Chicago Bulls after six seasons
Billy Donovan will step down as coach of the Chicago Bulls after six seasons, the team announced Tuesday, April 21.
Donovan had an option year on his contract to coach the Bulls next season, but has decided to step down. Chicago is still looking for a person to head up its basketball operations.
Announcement
“Through honest conversations, we all agreed that giving our new head of basketball operations the right to grow 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,” Bulls president Jerry Reinsdorf said in a statement.
The 60-year-old Donovan finished with a 226-256 record during his time in Chicago, and the Bulls have missed the postseason in each of the last four years.
“After a series of thorough and thorough 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 take place,” Donovan said in a statement. “I believe it is in the best interest of the Bulls to allow the new leader to expand the staff as he sees fit. My gratitude to this community and this organization is lifelong.”
Prior to coaching the Bulls, Donovan spent five seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he compiled a 243-157 record, with the team making the playoffs in each season.
Announcement
The Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer coached at the University of Florida before moving to the NBA, leading the Gators to two national championships.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Billy Donovan steps down as Chicago Bulls coach after six seasons