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UNC Basketball Coaching Search Intensifies as Top Candidate Emerges
Insider reports UNC has zeroed in on Billy Donovan as frontrunner for vacant head coaching job.
Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:30am
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The University of North Carolina's search for a new men's basketball head coach has ramped up in recent days, with reports indicating the school has narrowed its focus to former Florida and current Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan as the top candidate for the position. The Tar Heels fired previous coach Hubert Davis 12 days ago, and the search has intensified ahead of this weekend's NCAA championship game in Indianapolis.
Why it matters
UNC is one of the most prestigious college basketball programs in the country, having won 6 national championships. Finding the right replacement for Davis, who was let go after just 2 seasons, is crucial for the Tar Heels to maintain their status as an elite program. Donovan, who won 2 national titles at Florida, would bring a wealth of experience and success to Chapel Hill.
The details
According to insider reports, North Carolina has made Billy Donovan its top target to fill the vacant head coaching position. Donovan, who currently serves as head coach of the NBA's Chicago Bulls, has emerged as the frontrunner after several other potential candidates removed themselves from consideration. The Tar Heels are hoping to have a new head coach in place before this weekend's national championship game in Indianapolis.
- Hubert Davis was fired as UNC's head coach 12 days ago.
- The NCAA championship game will be played this weekend in Indianapolis.
The players
Hubert Davis
The former head coach of the University of North Carolina men's basketball team, who was fired after just 2 seasons.
Billy Donovan
The current head coach of the NBA's Chicago Bulls, and the top candidate to become the next head coach of the University of North Carolina men's basketball team.
What’s next
UNC is expected to make a decision on its next head coach in the coming days, ahead of this weekend's NCAA championship game.
The takeaway
The University of North Carolina's search for a new men's basketball head coach has intensified, with the school reportedly zeroing in on veteran coach Billy Donovan as the top candidate to lead the storied program. Donovan's wealth of experience and success at the college and professional levels make him an attractive option for the Tar Heels as they look to quickly fill the vacancy left by Hubert Davis' dismissal.
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