“The defense is going to be a challenge; I’ve said that from the beginning of the year,” Billy Donovan admitted after the Bulls’ 144-126 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. While his focus is on improving Chicago’s defensive struggles, there’s more to Billy than his on-court challenges. How does his family play a role in shaping his perspective and keeping him grounded amidst the pressure of coaching in the NBA?

Who is Billy Donovan’s wife Christine? How old is she?

On August 5, 1989, Billy Donovan married his college sweetheart Christine D’Auria. She was born to parents Anthony J. D’Auria and Patricia Ann Connor D’Auria. She is a descendant of the Hasbrouck family, a notable family with historical significance. However, do not be surprised after knowing from where she hails as she is from Port Washington, New York, which is just 20 minutes away from where he grew up, Rockville Centre. Even living just miles apart, they never meet until college. Both went to Providence College, and they had mutual friends, though they seldom crossed paths. Their first real interaction came in May 1988 at a mutual friend’s wedding. They sat together and talked, and Donovan asked her out. And after a year, the couple got married on Long Island.

She played a crucial role in his career, particularly in their time as college coaches. She embraced the role of “surrogate mom” to college players. He often spoke about how she helped create a nurturing, family-like environment. “You’re a caretaker as a college coach’s wife. We would have players to the house for dinner to make sure they were doing OK. When they were sick or got hurt, Christine would check in with them. She was an asset in recruiting. Parents want to see what kind of family the coach has.” He said.

However, she embraced the role fully. “I am a college coach’s wife,” she said. “I loved that.” Her support for Donovan went beyond the games, creating a strong foundation for their family and his career. She’s always been a quiet but steady presence, helping both Billy and the players feel supported. While Billy’s coaching success takes center stage, Christine’s behind-the-scenes contributions have been integral to their journey. Well, everything aside, she had made her own successful career.

What does Christine do for a living?

Christine D’Auria was once a fourth-grade teacher with a deep passion for education after earning a master’s degree in elementary education from Long Island University’s C.W. Post campus. Before that, she majored in general and social studies at Providence College. Her career in teaching reflects her nurturing and caring nature, qualities she also brings to her personal life and philanthropic efforts.

Beyond her teaching career, Christine has been heavily involved in charity work alongside her husband, Donovan. Together, they’ve made a significant impact on their community. They helped raise around $1 million to expand classrooms at St. Francis Catholic High School in Gainesville. They also donated $1 million to fund a basketball practice court at Providence College’s Ruane Friar Development Centre. Their philanthropy has touched many lives, reflecting their shared commitment to giving back.

In addition to her philanthropic work, she made an appearance as a guest on The Pioneer Woman with Ree Drummond and Nina Westbrook in March 2018. Her appearance showcased her ability to connect with others and her engaging personality beyond her usual private life.

Faith plays a central role in their life and marriage. “Everything revolves around that,” Donovan said. “The more we’re centered in God and our faith, we have a little more internal peace, and we’re more reflective of what God wants us to be.” Her steady presence has been a perfect balance to Billy’s demanding career, helping keep the family grounded while he invested his time in his work. She remains a key, behind-the-scenes partner in his journey. However, their work apart, there’s something more in their lives. They are also dedicated parents to their kids.

How many kids do Billy Donovan and Christine have?

The Donovan couple are parents to four children. They welcomed their eldest son, William Donovan III, in 1992. Following him were three other children: Hasbrouck Anne Donovan, Bryan Donovan, and Connor Donovan. Do you know all the kids are athletes? Yes, here’s how their eldest son, William, followed in his father’s footsteps. He played basketball and later coached. He initially played at Catholic University before transferring to Florida State University, where he played from 2013 to 2015. In 2024, he was appointed as the head coach of the Windy City Bulls.

Next, their daughter, Hasbrouck, lives in Florida and works as an Orangetheory Fitness coach. She’s also a National Champion with Auburn University’s equestrian team. Their third child, Bryan, a skilled basketball player, faced challenges due to knee surgeries in high school. Despite setbacks, he played for Rogers Williams University in 2018 after spending a year at Providence College under coach Ed Cooley.

And finally, their youngest, Connor, attended McGuinness High School in Oklahoma City. She excelled in both volleyball and tennis. It’s clear the Donovan children share their parents’ strong work ethic and dedication to their passions. How will Billy and Christine’s legacy continue through their children’s journeys?