Bulls' Buzelis Praises Coach Donovan: 'I'm Riding with Him Forever'

Young forward credits Donovan for pushing him to improve despite team's struggles

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:22am

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A cubist-style painting depicting fragmented, overlapping geometric shapes in navy, green, and orange hues, representing the dynamic relationship between a basketball player and coach.Buzelis' unwavering support for coach Donovan reflects the strong bond between player and mentor, despite the team's struggles.Chicago Today

Matas Buzelis, the young Chicago Bulls forward, has voiced strong support for head coach Billy Donovan, saying he wants Donovan to stay with the team and that he is "riding with him forever." Buzelis praised Donovan's coaching style, saying the veteran coach has been a "role model" and has "pushed me to my limits" to help Buzelis develop as a player, even during the Bulls' losing season.

Why it matters

Donovan's future with the Bulls has been a topic of speculation, with the team expected to undergo changes in basketball operations. Buzelis' strong endorsement of Donovan suggests the coach has the backing of at least one key young player, which could influence the team's decision on whether to retain Donovan as head coach.

The details

Buzelis, a second-year forward, said Donovan has been "everything" to him, crediting the coach for being honest and pushing him to improve despite the Bulls' struggles this season. Donovan has been tough on Buzelis at times, quickly benching him when he hasn't performed, but Buzelis said that approach is helping him become a "winning player." The young forward said he wouldn't be the player he is without Donovan's guidance.

  • On April 9, 2026, Donovan said Buzelis needs to get stronger to neutralize opponents' physicality.
  • On April 10, 2026, Bulls players Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis expressed their support for Donovan to remain as head coach.

The players

Matas Buzelis

A young forward for the Chicago Bulls who has praised head coach Billy Donovan for his development and support.

Billy Donovan

The head coach of the Chicago Bulls, known for his strong player development skills and honest coaching style.

Josh Giddey

A Bulls player who also voiced his support for Donovan to remain as head coach.

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What they’re saying

“I want him to stay. I'm riding with him forever.”

— Matas Buzelis, Bulls forward

“I love him and hope he's here for a long time.”

— Josh Giddey, Bulls player

What’s next

The Bulls will need to decide on Donovan's future with the team as they undergo changes in basketball operations. Buzelis' strong support for Donovan could influence the team's decision on whether to retain the veteran coach.

The takeaway

Donovan has earned the trust and respect of at least one key young player in Matas Buzelis, who credits the coach for pushing him to improve and develop as an NBA player. This could be an important factor as the Bulls weigh Donovan's future with the team.