The Chicago Bulls will have a new person leading the way next season. Head coach Billy Donovan has decided to step down from the position.
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The team announced the news on Tuesday morning. This followed a report from ESPN that the Bulls actually wanted Donovan back for another season. However, sources told the outlet that he held an option in his contract and ultimately made the decision after meeting with team executives.
The Bulls previously fired executive vice president Arturas Karnisovas and general manager Marc Eversley while making significant changes to the front office. This followed a 31-51 season.
Head coach Billy Donovan is stepping away from the Chicago Bulls
Donovan spent six seasons with the team and the Bulls will now search for a new executive & HC this offseason pic.twitter.com/AZXmS63avl
— Bulls on CHSN (@CHSN_Bulls) April 21, 2026
"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.
"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 all have 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 took over as head coach of the Bulls in 2020 after spending five seasons with the Thunder. He posted a win-loss record of 226-256 during his tenure in the Windy City, headlined by a 46-36 campaign in 2021-2022.
The team had one playoff appearance, which ended with a first-round loss to the Bucks.
"Over the past six years, Billy Donovan has earned the respect of everyone in our organization, and his impact extended far beyond the court," Michael Reinsdorf said. "He brought professionalism, consistency and leadership to our players and our staff every single day.
"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. Together, we mutually agreed that giving that person the freedom to shape the organization was the best approach for everyone involved. We are grateful for everything he has given to this team and wish Billy and his family all the best."
