Billy Donovan Steps Down as Bulls Coach After Six Seasons

Billy Donovan is stepping down from his position as head coach for the Chicago Bulls after six seasons.

The Bulls announced the move on Tuesday morning. Franchise owner Jerry Reinsdorf said the organization wanted Donovan to continue as head coach.

Donovan had an option on his contract next season, but ultimately elected to step away after “extensive discussions.”

“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 in a statement. “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.”

"Billy Donovan is one of the finest people and coaches I have had the privilege of knowing and working with. He brought class and genuine care to this organization that made a real impact on people,” Reinsdorf said.

“We wanted Billy to continue as our head coach – that was never in question. But through honest conversations, we all agreed that giving our new Head of Basketball Operations the right to build out his staff was the most important thing for the future of this franchise,” the owner continued. “That is the kind of person Billy is – he put the Bulls first. We are deeply grateful for everything he has given to this organization."

The Bulls fired executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas and general manager Marc Eversley on April 6, as the team wrapped up its disappointing 31-51 season. Now, the franchise is looking toward a fresh start under new basketball operations leadership.

“While we clearly wanted Billy to return as our head coach, we had open dialogue about the importance of respecting the process of bringing in new Basketball Operations leadership,” Bulls CEO and president Michael Reinsdorf added. “Together, we mutually agreed that giving that person the freedom to shape the organization was the best approach for everyone involved.”

Donovan, a two-time NCAA Tournament national champion, was a rumored candidate for the North Carolina Tar Heels’ job opening earlier this year. That job ultimately went to former Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone.

Donovan, 60, reportedly plans to continue his coaching career elsewhere following his decision to step away from the Bulls.

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This story was originally published April 21, 2026 at 9:07 AM.