Image Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images

Chicago Bulls Hand Billy Donovan Extension Despite Underwhelming Record and Play-in Exits

Front Office Reaffirms Faith In Donovan

Image Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images

The Chicago Bulls have extended the reign of head coach Billy Donovan as both parties have agreed to a new deal. This came in spite of Billy Donovan’s inconsistent tenure and weak results across five years in Chicago.

Donovan was hired by the Bulls in 2020 and has only reached the playoffs once since arriving. He joined from the Oklahoma City Thunder where he had a dominant record of 243-157.

Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan has signed a multiyear contract extension with the franchise, sources tell ESPN. Donovan is viewed as a leader within the Bulls organization, and will enter his sixth season in Chicago in 2025-26 with 800 NBA games coached over his career. pic.twitter.com/LVYMiZt2Tv
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 27, 2025

However, in Chicago, the record has been 196-209 with 1 playoffs appearance and three eliminations from the Play-in tournament. Fans across social media have voiced their concerns over the new contract.

The Chicago Bulls management, meanwhile, has strong belief in the 60-year-old head coach. The management believes in their roadmap and have decided to stay the course with Donovan.

Billy Donovan is 196-209 in 6 years as a Bulls coach
That’s a 48% winning percentage

In my line of work, if only 48% of my clients saw results I simply would have to find another job
— Justin Talks Hoops (@J_Talks_Hoops) July 27, 2025

Not only did the franchise extend Billy Donovan but also other members in the top circle. Executive VP Arturas Karnisovas, and GM Marc Eversley were also given extensions.

Chicago Confident In Donovan’s Long-Term Vision

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the talks of extension started at the end of the last season. This despite the Bulls underwhelming performance in the East. They finished at the 9th position with a record of .476 and were eventually eliminated by the Miami Heat in the Play-in tournament.

The extension talks concluded recently after Donovan held in-depth discussions with the Bulls’ management on roster, strategy, and direction. The Bulls are happy with their decision despite on-court struggles of the team.

Billy Donovan, they believe, is highly valued off court due to his ability to develop young players. The Bulls are focused on building a competitive young core for future postseason success. And with players like Coby White, Josh Giddey, Natasha Buzelis, and Noa Essengue, Donovan’s presence is even more valued.

The two-time NCAA champion also declined interest from the New York Knicks earlier in the offseason.