The Bulls will be looking for a new head coach this offseason, as well as a vice president of basketball operations and general manager.
Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan is officially stepping away from the team. He announced his decision on Tuesday morning.
"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."
Donovan's departure comes just 15 days after the firings of vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas and general manager Marc Eversley. The Bulls will now be looking at a full reset from the top down, with team president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf leading the charge.
"My gratitude for this community and this organization is permanent," Donovan said. "Thank you Jerry and Michael for giving me this opportunity and more importantly, for the relationship that has been forged. I was so blessed to be able to work with such great owners. I owe so much to my players and staff over the last six years. You all have worked side by side with me, day in and day out to drive the Bulls organization forward. And a huge thank you to Bulls fans, your energy, passion, and unwavering support provided a home-court advantage that is generally unmatched around the league."
Apr 9, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan talks with Chicago Bulls guard Collin Sexton (2) Washington Wizards in the second half at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn ImagesVia press release, Jerry and Michael Reinsdorf revealed that they wanted Donovan to remain the Bulls' head coach. However, they mutually agreed that Chicago's next head of basketball operations should have the right to construct their staff fully.
Donovan exits the Bulls after a 31-51 campaign, the worst season of his six-year tenure. He tallied a 226-256 record in Chicago and brought the team to the postseason in 2021-22.
It's been an incredibly challenging year for Donovan. The 60-year-old head coach lost his father in February and his mother-in-law just eight days later. It's long been speculated that Donovan could look to step away from the rebuilding Bulls, but whether he takes time off or immediately searches for another job is yet to be determined.
Donovan previously coached the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2015 to 2020, leading his team to the playoffs each year. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame last fall for his time in college basketball, which included two National Championships with the Florida Gators.