Extension of Basketball Coach Brad Underwood's Contract with Illinois Lasts Until 2031
Fired Up for Fighting Illini: Brad Underwood Inks Long-Term Extension
Illinois is holding on to head coach Brad Underwood for the foreseeable future, with a new contract announced this week. Through 2030-31, Underwood leads the men's basketball team, a reward for his impressive eight-year run. This stretch includes five March Madness appearances and a glorious Elite Eight visit.
Underwood's Hefty New Deal
Underwood's contract, pending approval by the university's Board of Trustees on May 22, is set to kick off at a whopping $4.4 million. Eager for success, he's eligible for four one-year extensions if he hits performance benchmarks, on top of annual retention incentives initiating on July 1. Starting at $1.15 million, these incentives give Underwood the potential to boost his wage even higher.
AD Josh Whitman shared his enthusiasm, saying, "Brad and Susan are a fantastic fit for the University of Illinois. We've thrived under his leadership, making our mark as a Big Ten powerhouse and NCAA Tournament regular." Pointing to his unwavering commitment and adaptability, Whitman expresses his eagerness to push the program further.
A Record-Breaking Man
Since Underwood's arrival, Illinois basketball has turned heads. With a 165-101 overall record, 92-66 in Big Ten play, and three league championships, he stands tall alongside legendary coach Lou Henson. Underwood's current streak of consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances is unmatched, solidifying his status as a key figure for the program.
A Program Revitalized
Under Underwood's guidance, Illinois has prospered. Over the past six years, the team stands equal with the most Big Ten wins (92) and boasts the most league road victories (34), alongside the most regular season and conference tournament wins combined (88).
"We owe a huge thanks to everyone that makes Illinois such a wonderful place," Underwood shared. "With a strong foundation – starting from our outstanding AD, Josh Whitman – we've been able to achieve a great deal."
The Road to a National Championship
Passion remains the driving force for Underwood and the Fighting Illini. As he steps onto the court, greeted by the sold-out State Farm Center crowd and the Orange Krush, he knows he's one of the luckiest guys out there. The team's unparalleled fan support echoes across the arena, both at home and on the road. It's an unique experience, and Underwood looks forward to the thrilling years ahead as they strive for a national championship.
A Legacy Defined: Three Big Ten Titles
Boasting three Big Ten titles, Underwood ties for the second-most in program history. Just shy of legendary coach Harry Combes' four over his impressive 20-year tenure. Unfortunately, cancellation of the 2020 NCAA Tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic robbed Illinois of yet another chance to shine on the big stage.
Despite losing a majority of last season's starters and top scorers, the Illini managed an impressive 22 victories, spending much of the season ranked among the Top 25. Illinois joins an exclusive list of schools advancing to the NCAA Tournament in at least four of the last five years, a testament to Underwood's impact on the program.
With a 274-128 record in 12 seasons as a head coach between Stephen F. Austin, Oklahoma State, and Illinois, Underwood showcases consistency and greatness. He's not just your average basketball coach; he's the man behind the success of the Fighting Illini.
Underwood's new deal, worth $4.4 million, includes potential annual retention incentives that could increase his wage, starting at $1.15 million. With the new contract, Underwood is aiming to push the Illinois men's basketball program further, aiming for a national championship. Underwood's leadership has already led to Illinois basketball being a Big Ten powerhouse, with three league titles, and regular appearances in the NCAA Tournament, including a visit to the Elite Eight.
