Report: Billy Donovan Steps Down as Bulls Head Coach
Former Florida men’s basketball coach Billy Donovan is stepping down as head coach of the Chicago Bulls after six seasons, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The Bulls wanted Donovan to return for the 2026–27 season; however, after discussions with the organization, Donovan elected to depart Chicago.
Following significant roster changes ahead of the 2026 NBA trade deadline, the Bulls fully committed to a rebuild, raising questions about Donovan’s long-term future with the organization.
In recent years, Donovan has also been linked to a potential return to collegiate basketball. In 2024, when the Kentucky job opened, he was considered a candidate for the position; however, the timing did not align, as the Bulls were competing in the NBA play-in tournament.
More recently, Donovan was in the mix for the North Carolina job after the program parted ways with Hubert Davis. Once again, timing proved to be an issue, as Donovan reportedly preferred to finish the 2025–26 season in Chicago before exploring other opportunities. North Carolina ultimately hired former Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone.
Now a free agent, Donovan has the opportunity to pursue jobs in either the professional or collegiate ranks. With most major NCAA coaching positions already filled, a return to college basketball appeared unlikely, at least we thought.
On Monday night, Yahoo Sports NBA analyst Kevin O’Connor reported that the Golden State Warriors have expressed a strong interest in Florida head coach Todd Golden. With Steve Kerr’s future in Golden State uncertain, the organization is exploring potential options for the direction of the franchise.
Golden has maintained a strong relationship with the Lacob family, the Warriors’ owners, for years. During his time coaching the San Francisco Dons, the two sides developed a relationship that included informal lunches. Now, as the Warriors potentially prepare for a coaching search, Golden is expected to be near the top of the list.
Where there is success, opportunity often follows, and it would be difficult to pass up the chance to coach one of the NBA’s premier franchises.
If Golden were to leave for Golden State, Florida would be forced to consider its next move. One possible option could be a reunion with Donovan, who previously led the Gators to two national championships, four Final Four appearances, and six SEC regular-season titles.
Losing Golden would be a significant blow for Florida, but Donovan’s past success and familiarity with the program would immediately make him a prominent candidate should the job open.
Category: Basketball, College Basketball, Gators Men's Basketball, NBA
