Since becoming the new head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Billy Donovan hasn’t said much about the school he left until today.
Donovan spent 19 years as the man in Gainesville, winning two National Championships and reaching four Final Fours.
All those memories caused this full-page newspaper ad to surface.
Here’s the full text from Donovan and his wife:
“GOODBYE” is so difficult, especially after having spent two decades in this community. (And as you’ve seen before, leaving you all has never been easy for us!)
“The University of Florida and Gainesville embraced us from the day we arrived so long ago, and we have grown to love not only this local community that has so loved us, but all of Gator Nation — from Crescent Beach to Cedar Key, from Miami to New York, from Jacksonville to San Fransisco, to all over the nation and globe.
“We are so grateful to Jeremy Foley, staff and leaders at the University of Florida, along with scores of players and coaches who have become part of our family. And, of course, the Rowdy Reptiles.
We leave with hearts full of love and cherished memories of euphoria and heartbreak — on and off the court — shared at every step with our Gator family.
We are excited for all that Mike White brings as he puts his own unique mark on Florida basketball…Fannnnntastic!
And so, rather than goodbye, …until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
— Billy and Christine Donovan