Billy Donovan Receives Major News on Saturday

After his playing career, Donovan transitioned to coaching where he first got experience on the sidelines as an assistant under Rick Pitino at the University of Kentucky.

Eventually, Donovan would grow to prominence as a head coach when he accepted the role at Florida.

From 1996-2015, Donovan won two national championships, six Southeastern Conference regular season titles, made four Final Fours, and tallied 467 wins in his 19 seasons coaching the Gators. 

Beyond the laundry list of accolades he earned, Donovan ultimately played a pivotal role in relaunching Florida into one of college basketball’s most decorated powerhouses. 

As a result of his collegiate success, Donovan would flirt with a move to the professional ranks over his time in Florida. 

He eventually made the jump to the NBA in 2015, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Conference Finals in his first season.

Donovan currently coaches the Chicago Bulls, who are poised for a playoff berth.

It should come as no surprise that a coach with Donovan’s resume was elected. 

Perhaps more than the wins, his impact on the culture and reputation of the Gators is what will be remembered the most.