GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – Nine years after leaving, legendary Florida basketball coach Billy Donovan is still giving back to the Gainesville community. Event organizers with “Impact for Living” said Donovan is a man of deep faith and conviction.
“I wouldn’t change my 19 years here for anything. It was an incredible experience, and I enjoyed every minute of it,” Donovan said.
A 2-time National Champion, 6-time SEC Champion, and 3-time SEC Coach of the Year, Billy Donovan’s tenure at Florida was historic, but what he loved most about Gainesville is his connections made off the hardwood.
“The people were just incredible to my myself, my wife and my children for 19 years,” Donovan said. “I am always grateful for that.”
Still in the NBA offseason, Donovan spoke about his faith and leadership to a packed crowd at the Rock of Gainesville Church. He shared struggles of raising a young family in a new job, trying to find balance.
“There is strength and power in vulnerability,” Donovan said. “In that, everyone has to make a decision of how vulnerable they want to be. For me, it is important to be honest.”
One life-long Gator fan came to learn about Donovan’s path with God and his faith.
“Since I work with youth, I want to know how to guide them the right way, especially athletes. I want them to be a good Christian and good athlete at the same time,” said Keith Archer, Gainesville resident.
Donovan still owns a house in Gainesville, and three of his children live here. He said he youngest daughter just graduated from UF. It is clear he is still very much at home in Gainesville.
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