Colin Cowherd links Billy Donovan to the Orlando Magic… and Kentucky Wildcats

TL;DR

Billy Donovan is speculated to be a candidate for the Orlando Magic and possibly the Kentucky Wildcats after parting ways with the Chicago Bulls. His previous brief stint with the Magic in 2007 adds to the intrigue as the team is currently in the NBA Playoffs.

Key points

Billy Donovan is speculated to join the Orlando Magic.
Donovan previously coached the Magic briefly in 2007.
Colin Cowherd linked Donovan to the Kentucky Wildcats.
The Magic are currently in the NBA Playoffs.
Jamahl Mosley is the current head coach of the Magic.

Mentioned in this story

Billy DonovanColin CowherdMark Pope

Orlando MagicChicago BullsKentucky Wildcats

Apr 3, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan watches from the bench in the third quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images | Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images The news of Billy Donovan and the Chicago Bulls parting ways recently made some headlines, but the bigger question was: Where is Donovan heading next? Well, many have speculated that Donovan is very interested in the Orlando Magic. That should bring back some nostalgia for basketball fans, as Donovan was hired as the coach of the Orlando Magic in 2007 after back-to-back titles at Florida, while the Kentucky Wildcats also made a push. Donovan’s time with the Magic lasted less than a week before he changed his mind and returned to Gainesville. Donovan could ultimately end up with the Magic this time around, although it is an interesting scenario as the Magic are currently in the NBA Playoffs and pulled off an upset in Game 1 against the 1-seed Detroit Pistons. Also important to note: Jamahl Mosley remains the head coach of the Magic, although there has been speculation for much of the season that Mosley may not return as coach of the Magic next season. So, where does Kentucky play into this? Well, Colin Cowherd – who lives in Chicago – mentioned Kentucky as a possible landing spot for Donovan. Take a listen: The Kentucky mention happens at around the 2:00 mark. “Now, if Orlando beats Detroit in that series, I kind of got a feeling the Pistons are going to come back, blowout win, or keep your eye on Kentucky Basketball,” he said. It was an interesting statement by Cowherd about Kentucky in that regard. Obviously, Kentucky still has a coach in Mark Pope, but many believe Pope is headed into a critical Year 3 after a disappointing season. Maybe Donovan could come be the Kentucky GM? Lord knows they could use one right about now. Where do you think Billy Donovan lands?

Q&A

What are the chances of Billy Donovan becoming the head coach of the Orlando Magic?

There is speculation that Billy Donovan is interested in the Orlando Magic, especially since they are currently in the NBA Playoffs.

Why is Kentucky mentioned in relation to Billy Donovan's coaching future?

Colin Cowherd suggested Kentucky as a potential landing spot for Donovan, especially given the uncertainty surrounding their current coach, Mark Pope.

What happened between Billy Donovan and the Chicago Bulls?

Billy Donovan recently parted ways with the Chicago Bulls, prompting discussions about his next coaching position.