GAINESVILLE, Fla., June 4 (UPI) -- Two University of Florida athletic department sources say basketball coach Billy Donovan is having second thoughts about taking an NBA position.
The sources confirmed Donovan, who signed a five-year contract Friday to coach the Orlando Magic, is now seeking to back out of the deal and stay in Gainesville to continue coaching the Gators, WKMG-TV, Orlando, reported Monday.
Donovan reportedly told Magic officials that felt rushed into the decision and now regrets his choice. Florida Today said representatives of the team's management are believed to be on their way to Gainesville to discuss the matter with Donovan and try to convince him to change his mind for a second time.
Donovan, who took home two consecutive national titles over the past two seasons as coach of the Gators, was signed to a $27.5 million deal with the Orlando Magic.
Magic general manager Otis Smith said Friday it was difficult top convince Donovan to leave the university.
"Over (last) weekend, we just had to get comfortable with each other," he said. "He's a big relationship and trust guy, as I am. The vision was the same in that we both want to win."
