My how the tide has changed in Florida!! Billy Donovan leaves Gator-Land for greener pastures and by “greener” I do mean “GREENER!” to the tone of 27.5 million dollars for a five year contract. According to ESPN, Billy the Kid will hold a press conference tomorrow, 6-1-07, at 11 A.M. to announce his intention of moving to the pros as head coach of the Orlando Magic. On May 23rd, Orlando fired Brian Hill after 2 losing seasons and this year’s first round sweep in the playoffs.

Gator fans were practically crowing when Donovan turned down Kentucky to stay in Florida. With 2 back-to-back National Championships under his belt and 2 McDonald All Americans heading his way next year, it looked like FL would begin a new tradition. However, when the Orlando waved their Magic wand, Donovan found their offer too sweet to turn down. Apparently the location played a role in his decision as well. (sure Billy!!) The ESPN source reports former Florida assistant, Anthony Grant will take over the head-less program. Grant, if you remember, led VCU to the second round of the NCAA tournament beating Duke along the way.

"Billy Donovan has been here 11 years and has won two national championships," Florida president Dr. J. Bernard Machen told ESPN.com's Mark Schlabach. "We'll always love Billy Donovan, whether he was here 11 years or 21 years. I don't think the University of Florida has to worry about who their next coach is." It had been reported Donovan would remain at Florida and was negotiating a 7-year extension which would pay him around $3 million in the first year rising to $3.75 by 2013-2014. This was presented to Billy May 17th but by the 25th the contract was yet to be signed.

It will be interesting to see if 6’5” shooting guard Nick Calathes and 5’10” point guard Jai Lucas will honor their intentions to wear the orange and blue seeing that Billy’s favorite color is now GREEN!! Let's hope he hasn't made the same mistake Pitino made!