Bulls and coach Billy Donovan agree to a contract extension
Bulls Coach Billy Donovan Gets Contract Extension
Chicago inks coach for future seasons after mixed season performance.
CHICAGO — The Chicago Bulls and head coach Billy Donovan have agreed to a contract extension, the team announced Sunday. Specific details regarding the length and financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Donovan has led the Bulls through five seasons, compiling a 195-205 record with one playoff appearance. This past season saw Chicago finish with a 39-43 record, placing them ninth in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls ultimately fell short in the play-in tournament for the third consecutive year, suffering a decisive loss at home to the Miami Heat.
Despite the disappointing playoff result, Chicago showed promise late in the regular season, finishing with a 15-5 record. This surge came amidst a period where some teams rested key players and others focused on securing favorable draft positioning.
The Bulls underwent significant roster changes last season, trading away DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso prior to the year and dealing Zach LaVine at the February trade deadline. The team also implemented a faster pace of play. Coby White emerged with a career-high 20.4 points per game, while Josh Giddey impressed in his first season with the Bulls, particularly down the stretch.
This offseason has seen relatively limited activity from Chicago. The team selected Noa Essengue out of the French Basketball League with the 12th overall pick in the draft and traded Lonzo Ball to Cleveland for Isaac Okoro.
Donovan boasts a successful 438-362 record over 10 seasons as an NBA head coach. His impressive track record led him to the Bulls helm in September 2020, replacing Jim Boylen after his five-year tenure with the franchise. Prior to Chicago, Donovan enjoyed a highly successful run with the Oklahoma City Thunder, achieving a 243-157 record and playoff appearances every season while working alongside NBA superstars Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Paul George, and Chris Paul.
His basketball expertise extends beyond the NBA. Donovan led the University of Florida for 19 seasons, culminating in back-to-back NCAA championship wins. He is set to be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame this September.