The Chicago Bulls extend Billy Donovan and fans are left wondering if real change is ever coming
The Chicago Bulls have taken a big step by extending head coach Billy Donovan's contract for multiple years, ensuring he stays in charge until at least the 2025-26 season.
Negotiations kicked off at the end of last season and carried on through a hectic offseason filled with the draft, free agency, and summer league activities.
This choice has sparked mixed feelings among fans, especially given the team's challenges under Donovan, leading many to wonder if this indicates a desire for change.
Billy Donovan will enter his sixth season with the Chicago
Bulls
in 2025
Billy Donovan had one year remaining on his current contract and has been a key figure for the Bulls' management. Discussions about an extension began after last season and continued even when the New York Knicks showed interest in Donovan for their head coaching position.
However, the Bulls turned down the Knicks' request to interview him, clearly indicating their desire to retain him in Chicago. 'Donovan is viewed as a leader within the Bulls organization,', stressing the franchise's trust in his ability to lead the team through its present difficulties.
This extension ensures Donovan will enter his sixth season with the Bulls in 2025-26, marking his 800th NBA game coached. His career record stands at 438-362 over 10 seasons, including his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
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In Chicago, however, his record is a more modest 195-205, with the team posting back-to-back 39-43 seasons, finishing ninth in the Eastern Conference, and losing in the play-in tournament for three straight years.
Billy Donovan's Hall of Fame induction adds weight to Chicago Bulls decision to keep him
The Bulls' decision to extend Donovan comes as the Eastern Conference grows increasingly competitive. Rising teams like the Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic, alongside powerhouses like the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks, have raised the bar.
The Bulls, stuck near .500, lack the star power or depth to match these contenders, leaving fans skeptical about the team's direction.
Also Read:
The Los Angeles Lakers might lose Lebron James in 2026 after his surprising meeting with Nikola Jokic's agent
To the optimists, there is some hope in Donovan extension. His exposure to young talent and talent management skills may prove very useful as Bulls incorporate new players in their team who were drafted recently. His hall of fame nomination and his other accomplishment of coaching 800 games in the NBA prove his reputation of a respected leader. To doubters, however, it is just postponement of the inevitable, a reluctance to get at underlying roster and strategic problems.
FAQs
How many seasons has Billy Donovan coached the Chicago Bulls?
He will enter his sixth season with the Bulls in 2025–26.
What concerns do fans have about the extension?
Many fans feel it avoids addressing the team's roster and strategy issues.
What is Billy Donovan's total career coaching record?
He has a 438–362 record over 10 NBA seasons.
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Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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