Official: Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan has been officially dismissed.

The Chicago Bulls announced on Tuesday that 60-year-old Billy Donovan has stepped down as head coach, effective immediately.

This change marks the Bulls' second major management reshuffle this spring. Earlier this month, they parted ways with Executive Vice President Arturas Karnishovas and General Manager Mark Eversley, who had worked together for six years.

According to a previous report by ESPN's Shams Charania, Donovan had in-depth discussions with the Bulls' management over the past week and ultimately concluded that a "complete separation" would be the best option for both sides.

Since taking over as head coach of the Bulls in September 2020, Donovan has led the team to a 226-256 record in the regular season. He coached the Bulls for six seasons, during which the team only made the playoffs once and was eliminated in the play-in tournament for three consecutive seasons.

Regarding Donovan's departure, Jerry Reinsdorf, one of the Bulls' owners, stated: "Billy Donovan is one of the best people and coaches I've ever had the privilege of knowing and working with. He brought a noble character and genuine care to the team, having a profound impact on everyone. Our stance that we wanted Billy to continue as head coach has never wavered. However, after frank discussions, we agreed that empowering the new Director of Basketball Operations to build his team is crucial for the team's future. That's just how Billy is—he always puts the Bulls first. We sincerely thank him for everything he's done for the team."

Michael Reinsdorf later added, “Billy Donovan has earned the respect of the entire team over the past six years, and his influence extends far beyond the court. Day after day, he instills professionalism, consistency, and leadership in the players and staff. While we clearly wanted Billy to remain as head coach, both sides had an open discussion about the importance of respecting the transition process in basketball operations management. We ultimately agreed that giving the new head coach the autonomy to reshape the team system was the most appropriate choice for all stakeholders. We thank him for everything he has done for the team and wish Billy and his family all the best.”

Donovan himself also delivered a farewell speech: "After a series of thoughtful and in-depth discussions with the management regarding the team's future, I have decided to resign as head coach of the Chicago Bulls to allow for a smooth selection process for a new coach. I believe it is in the best interests of the Bulls to let the new head coach build the team according to his own vision. My gratitude to this city and this team will last forever. Thank you to Jerry and Michael for the opportunity to coach and build such a deep bond. It has been an honor to work with such an excellent management team. I owe so much to the players and staff over the past six years. You have fought alongside me day after day, pushing the Bulls forward. A special thank you to the Bulls fans. Your energy, passion, and unwavering support have created a home-court advantage that is rare in the league."

Although Donovan will no longer coach the Bulls next season, he has no intention of retiring. Sources told Charania that Donovan plans to continue his coaching career and has become a potential target for several NBA teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks and the New Orleans Pelicans.

Image source: Internet/Chicago Bulls official website