Billy Donovan Will Not Return To OKC Thunder

On Tuesday, the OKC Thunder announced that head coach Billy Donovan will not be returning to the Thunder for the next season.

Officials said the Thunder and Donovan came to a mutual agreement to part ways. Donovan has been the Thunder head coach since April 2015, leading the team to a 243-157 record (.608) in his five seasons.

"Coaching the Oklahoma City Thunder the past five seasons has been a great honor, and I thank Mr. Bennett, Sam and the entire organization for the opportunity," Donovan said. "I will always hold this organization in the highest regard and wish the Thunder and their fans the success they deserve.”

“Billy Donovan will be remembered fondly for his personal integrity and professionalism during his time as our head coach,” said Thunder Chairman, Clayton I. Bennet. “We wish him and his family nothing but the best.”

ESPN Senior Insider Adrian Wojnarowski said in a tweet that Donovan's contract expired at the end of this season and sides have decided to not pursue an extension.

Wojnarowski reported that "the reality of Oklahoma City’s eventual transition toward a rebuild made it a challenge for the two sides to find a way to continue forward together, sources said."