Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan resigns after six seasons

The Chicago Bulls said they wanted Billy Donovan to return as coach next season, but he opted to step down. Photo by Erik S. Lesser/EPA

April 21 (UPI) -- Billy Donovan has resigned as head coach of the Chicago Bulls, he announced Tuesday.

Donovan led the Bulls to a 226-256 record over six seasons, including a 31-51 mark in 2025-26. The Bulls failed to make the playoffs each of the last four years. They advanced to the postseason just once under Donovan.

"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."

Donovan, who was hired in 2020, thanked Bulls owners Jerry and Michael Reinsdorf for giving him the opportunity to serve as coach of the Eastern Conference franchise. Jerry Reinsdorf said the Bulls wanted Donovan to return next season.

"Billy Donovan is one of the finest people and coaches I have had the privilege of knowing and working with," Reinsdorf said.

"He brought class and genuine care to this organization that made a real impact on people. 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.

"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."