Bulls Deny Knicks Request to Interview Head Coach Billy Donovan

The New York Knicks have faced multiple denials in their search for a new head coach following the firing of Tom Thibodeau after five seasons. They have requested permission to interview several current NBA head coaches, including Chicago Bulls' Billy Donovan, Dallas Mavericks' Jason Kidd, Atlanta Hawks' Quin Snyder, Houston Rockets' Ime Udoka, and Minnesota Timberwolves' Chris Finch, but all teams have declined these requests. Billy Donovan, who has coached the Bulls since 2020 and has a strong professional reputation along with deep ties to New York, was notably denied by Chicago due to his valued role with the franchise. Despite these setbacks, the Knicks continue to explore options and may need to consider out-of-job coaches or assistants to fill their vacancy. Donovan’s coaching career includes a successful tenure at Florida with two national championships and a solid NBA coaching record. The Knicks, who reached the Eastern Conference Finals this season, remain determined to find a head coach capable of elevating the team to championship contention.