Oklahoma City Thunder coach Billy Donovan won’t be returning to the team next season, it was announced Tuesday.
The team said in a statement that both parties mutually agreed to part ways.
Donovan’s contract expired at season’s end, and the sides decided against pursuing an extension.
“We had planned to sit down at the end of the season and discuss the best way to move forward for both of us,” Thunder executive vice president and general manager Sam Presti said in a statement. “After those discussions, it became apparent that we couldn’t provide him the information on the future direction of the team over the next several seasons to give him the level of clarity that he understandably desires at this stage of his career.
“Therefore, we close this chapter and reflect fondly on all that he has given to the team, organization and community. Billy will always have a place in the Thunder family.”
“This place will always be special to us. I will always hold this organization in the highest regard and wish the Thunder and their fans the success they deserve,” Donovan said in a statement.
The reality of Oklahoma City’s transition toward a rebuild made it a challenge for the two sides to find a way to continue together, sources said.
ESPN Sources: Oklahoma City coach Billy Donovan won’t be returning to the Thunder next season. Donovan’s contract expired at season’s end and the sides have decided against pursuing an extension.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 9, 2020
Breaking: Oklahoma City coach Billy Donovan won’t be returning to the Thunder next season, per @wojespn.
Donovan’s contract expired at season’s end and the sides have decided against pursuing an extension. pic.twitter.com/QOqme39bOr
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) September 9, 2020
