OKC Thunder: University of Florida honors Billy Donovan

The University of Florida paid homage to their former coach as they dedicated Billy Donovan Court. The OKC Thunder head coach is arguably also experiencing his best season in the pros.

With the All-Star break in full swing, most players and coaches take this time to get some much needed rest and relaxation. For a precious few, the weekend and ensuing break were postponed. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chris Paul represented the OKC Thunder at the All-Star weekend in Chicago.

Head Coach Billy Donovan also had plans as he returned to the sight where he spent 19 seasons as the bench boss of the University of Florida basketball team.

Gators rename and dedicate home hardwood – Billy Donovan Court:

While many NBA players spent time in Chicago this past weekend at the All-Star event others like Bradley Beal, Al Horford, Joakim Noah, Mo Speights, and Dorian Finney-Smith were in Florida.

Soaking in the brilliant sunshine and vitamin D along with some rest might be what first comes to mind, but that wasn’t the primary reason for these NBA players’ presence in Florida. Rather, they were on hand to celebrate and congratulate Billy Donovan being honored by their alma mater – the Florida Gators.

https://twitter.com/SECNetwork/status/1228874982152900609

At halftime, during the University of Florida – Vanderbilt game at Exactech Arena, a presentation and dedication occurred as the coach was honored. Gator Nation witnessed the unveiling of what will forevermore be known as Billy Donovan Court.

The benchmarks are numerous (as per the above tweet). A win percentage of 71.5 percent over 19 seasons. Back to back National Championships and reaching the Final Four on four occasions are the top lines of his success. Countless players were mentored under Donovan and moved onto the NBA.