Spurs Hired Billy Donovan as Assistant Coach
The veteran head coach joined the San Antonio organization this past offseason.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Basketball
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The San Antonio Spurs hired Billy Donovan as an assistant coach during the 2026 offseason. Donovan joins the coaching staff to replace Sean Sweeney, who departed the team for the Orlando Magic.
Why it matters
The addition of Donovan brings extensive NBA head coaching experience to the San Antonio sidelines following his recent tenure in Chicago. He is slated to be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2025.
Billy Donovan concluded his six-year stint with the Chicago Bulls with a 226-256 record, following his five-year tenure with the Oklahoma City Thunder where he went 243-157.
The players
Billy Donovan
He is an experienced NBA coach and member of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025.
Luke Kornet
The 31-year-old player signed a $41 million contract with the Spurs in 2025 and previously played for Donovan in Chicago.
Sean Sweeney
He formerly served as a Spurs assistant coach before leaving the organization to join the Orlando Magic.
The details
Donovan brings his veteran leadership to San Antonio after leaving the Chicago Bulls in late April 2026. Spurs player Luke Kornet, who previously played under Donovan in Chicago, expressed his support for the hiring during training camp.
Timeline
Luke Kornet played for Billy Donovan in Chicago during the 2020-21 season.
Billy Donovan left the Chicago Bulls in late April 2026.
Luke Kornet signed a four-year, $41 million contract with the Spurs in July 2025.
Luke Kornet spoke at the start of training camp on September 29, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The addition of a veteran coach like Donovan alters the leadership dynamics of the Spurs coaching staff as the franchise looks to optimize its roster. This move provides the team with high-level tactical expertise as they integrate players signed during the 2025 free agency period.
The arrival of Donovan offers a familiar face for Luke Kornet, who previously played under the coach during the 2020-21 season. This transition fills a vital vacancy left by Sean Sweeney as the team moves into the 2026 season.
The takeaway
Donovan joins the Spurs with a proven track record from his tenures in both Oklahoma City and Chicago. His hiring signals a commitment from the organization to utilize experienced coaching to support their current roster.
Further reading
For more on roster moves and coaching changes in the league, check out San Antonio Basketball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by San Antonio Express-News.
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