Since 2024, Donovan has been mentioned as a candidate to return to the college ranks. After John Calipari left to become the head coach at Arkansas, there were rumors that Donovan could leave the Bulls to take over at Kentucky. That did not happen, as Kentucky wasn’t willing to wait and hired Mark Pope instead.

Chicago Bulls could target Thomas Haugh, Cameron Carr, or Nate Ament with the No. 15 pick acquired from the Blazers in the 2026 NBA Draft.

As the Chicago Bulls add another search to their list, who are some head coach candidates we could see pop up in the coming weeks?

Head coach Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls looks on against the Orlando Magic at the United Center on April 10, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO

The Dallas Mavericks foolishly won the final game of the season against the Chicago Bulls, which pushed them into a tie with the New Orleans Pelicans for the 7th-worst record in the NBA.

Donovan chose to part ways with the Bulls after six seasons at the helm.

The Chicago Bulls’ GM search takes a major turn as a key decision looms — one that could shape the franchise’s future.

The Chicago Bulls have launched an extensive search for a new basketball operations leader with several candidates in the mix.