Billy Donovan, a highly respected figure in the basketball world, has been making waves as he steps away from his role with the Chicago Bulls. Despite a record of 226-256 over six seasons, many believe that his coaching abilities are not fully reflected by this statistic. The Bulls’ ownership was keen on keeping him, even suggesting they would not consider candidates for their lead executive position if they did not support Donovan’s return. However, Donovan chose to part ways with the team, announcing his decision through a press release.
Throughout his tenure with the Bulls, Donovan faced challenges due to the team’s roster limitations. This led to the departure of executive vice president Arturas Karnisovas and a rebuilding phase that the coach was not enthusiastic about joining. His ability to adapt his offensive strategies based on the players at his disposal was remarkable. He transitioned from an isolation-heavy approach with DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine to leading one of the league’s fastest teams with Josh Giddey. Although the Bulls lacked top defensive talent, they managed to guard effectively. Additionally, Donovan was recognized as one of the top-three coaches in drawing up plays during timeouts in his final season with the team.
His impressive resume, including back-to-back championships with the University of Florida, positions him as a highly sought-after coach in both college and NBA circles. Here are some of the most likely scenarios for his future:
Ranking NBA Jobs for Billy Donovan
Orlando Magic
Donovan had a close call with the Orlando Magic back in 2007 when he nearly accepted the head coaching job before changing his mind. He returned to the University of Florida instead. Since then, he became the highest-paid coach in college basketball and spent eight more years in the college ranks before moving to the NBA with the Thunder.
The Magic have struggled this season, falling short of playoff expectations. Head coach Jamahl Mosley is under pressure, and there are rumors of his potential departure. With a strong roster featuring young stars like Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Desmond Bane, the Magic could offer Donovan a compelling opportunity. It might be the best NBA job available, and he seems eager to stay in the league after a long break from college basketball.Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers are another team that could see an opening soon. Nick Nurse, a champion and former Coach of the Year with the Raptors, has not replicated that success since joining the 76ers in 2023.
Donovan, a Long Island native, has a history with the East Coast. The 76ers have a roster filled with young talent, including Tyrese Maxey, who has emerged as an All-NBA candidate, and VJ Edgecombe, one of the league’s best rookies. Joel Embiid has also shown dominance offensively when available.Returning to College
It has been over a decade since Donovan last coached at the college level. The landscape has changed significantly, especially with the rise of NIL money and the transfer portal. Donovan has previously turned down high-profile college jobs, such as the Kentucky position two years ago, choosing to finish out the Bulls’ season instead.
While he was a successful college coach, winning two national championships and achieving a 71% win rate, his NBA career has been more challenging. A return to college could be appealing, but it’s more likely that he will remain in the NBA where opportunities still abound.Taking a Sabbatical
Donovan has faced a difficult year both professionally and personally. The Bulls have struggled, largely due to the front office’s decisions. On a personal level, he lost his father and mother-in-law, and his wife had a leg amputation.
“I don’t think I’ve had time to really process or digest any of it,” Donovan said to the Chicago Tribune’s Julia Poe. “It’s been too much.”
Balancing his professional and personal life has been a challenge. It would be reasonable for him to take a year or two off to focus on his family. At 60, this could be the first sabbatical he has taken since his first head coaching job at Marshall in 1994. A break could allow him to reassess his options and explore better NBA opportunities in the future.
