KEY POINTS

  • Billy Donovan coached the OKC Thunder for five years
  • He is one of the four people who played in NCAA Final Four and won it as a head coach
  • Donovan replaced Jim Boylen as head coach of the Bulls

Billy Donovan is set to get richer after inking a 4-year, $24 million deal to coach the Chicago Bulls.

Donovan, who coached the Oklahoma City Thunder in his entire NBA career, decided not to return to the team despite overachieving this season because he apparently did not want to be part of rebuilding, per NBC Sports. The Thunder made the playoffs despite a roster overhaul, trading former MVP Russell Westbrook for Chris Paul. Donovan won the Coach of the Year for the 2019-2020 season, a recognition he shared with Mike Budenholzer of the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Chicago Bulls’ move to get Donovan means the franchise is finally getting serious in rebuilding. Former coach Jim Boylen has had an underwhelming if not disappointing stint with the team, tallying a 39-84 win-loss record in his two years in Chicago.

OKC Thunder Kevin Durant
Thunder forward Kevin Durant, left, has won three straight scoring titles, and faces a serious challenge for New York forward Carmelo Anthony Sunday. Reuters

The Bulls management trusts Donovan can maximize the roster just like how he did in his past teams. His experience coaching superstars such as Westbrook, Paul and Kevin Durant will be a plus. The 55-year-old is respected in the NBA circle, which will come in handy in recruiting stars to play for the Bulls. For Donovan, the decision to join Chicago boils down to the team’s history and prestige, according to CBS Sports.

The former Florida Gators coach is set to receive more than $6 million per year coaching his new team. The Bulls splurged on the deal and while it is not yet seen if the whole contract is guaranteed, it is expected to contain team options, as well as achievement related bonuses. Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra is paid $120,000 per won ball game this season. Both coaches have won the top coach award, so it is more likely Donovan’s deal also features won game incentives.

Chicago last made the postseason in 2017 and the team cannot wait to return to the playoffs once again.

As acoach of the Thunder, Donovan received $3.9 million per year, per Celebrity Net Worth. His salary increased as his tenure with the team became longer. When compared to his new deal with the Bulls, the former New York Knicks guard will earn bigger annually.

He enjoyed a successful college career and is one of the only four players who played in NCAA Final Four and won the NCAA national championship as a head coach

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