A New Chapter for a Hall of Fame Coach
Donovan's Move to the Spurs Confirmed
ESPN has disclosed that Billy Donovan, who previously served as head coach for the Chicago Bulls, has reached an agreement to join the San Antonio Spurs' coaching staff as their primary assistant coach.
Transition from Bulls Head Coach
Donovan, honored with induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025, concluded his tenure with the Bulls in April. This marked the end of a six-season run with the team and an impressive eleven consecutive years as an NBA head coach.
Departure from Chicago
Despite the Chicago team's 31-51 record and their fourth consecutive absence from the playoffs, the Bulls had expressed a desire for Donovan to remain. However, he opted not to activate the extension clause in his existing contract.
Reflections on Leaving the Bulls
In a statement issued on April 21st, Donovan articulated his decision to step down: "After careful and comprehensive discussions with the ownership regarding the organization's trajectory, I have chosen to depart as the Chicago Bulls' head coach to facilitate the subsequent search process. I believe it is in the best interest of the Bulls for the incoming leader to assemble their own coaching team as they deem appropriate."
Prior Speculations and Commitments
The 61-year-old Donovan had been a subject of speculation for various high-profile coaching roles, including the head coach position for the New York Knicks before the 2025-26 season, and even a potential return to the University of North Carolina in the college ranks. Nevertheless, he honored his contractual obligations to the Bulls.
Joining the Spurs' Ranks
His upcoming role is anticipated to be with the San Antonio Spurs. Under the guidance of Mitch Johnson, in his inaugural full season as head coach, San Antonio achieved a 62-20 regular-season record, securing the Western Conference championship before succumbing to the New York Knicks in a five-game NBA Finals series.
Distinguished NBA Coaching Record
Donovan's professional coaching career boasts a regular-season record of 469 wins and 413 losses (a .532 winning percentage) and a playoff record of 19 wins and 27 losses. These statistics encompass his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder (2015-20) and the Chicago Bulls (2020-26).
Accolades and Recognition
He was recognized as the National Basketball Coaches Association's Coach of the Year for the 2019-20 season, a period during which the Thunder posted an impressive 44-28 record (.611). That same season, he secured a third-place finish in the overall NBA Coach of the Year voting.
Collegiate Success and Legacy
Prior to his NBA career, Donovan achieved remarkable success in college basketball, compiling a 502-206 record (.709 winning percentage) across his tenures at Marshall (1994-96) and Florida (1996-2015). During his time with Florida, he led the team to four NCAA Final Four appearances and clinched two national championships in 2006 and 200
