Player Preview: Tyler Underwood

Tyler has followed his dad, Brad, since Underwood’s final year at Stephen F. Austin. Tyler received a medical redshirt after suffering a preseason injury. When his father took the job at Oklahoma State, Tyler tagged along and joined as a walk-on. Now he’s at Illinois with his dad.

What He Did Last Year:

Under his father, Tyler saw 30 minutes in 11 appearances. He hit a pair of three-pointers, one against New Orleans and the other against Georgetown. He also collected two steals, an assist and a block.

How Does He Fit into Underwood’s System:

If there is anyone that knows Brad Underwood’s offense on this team or coaching staff, it’s his son. He has been with him the past three years, knows the ins-and-outs, and has now seen his dad implement this system with three different teams. Although Underwood will see very little time this season, he will be a great contributor in helping the other guys get acclimated to the style of ball Brad Underwood wants to play.

What to Expect This Year:

Underwood’s son won’t see very many this year for the Illini. Even though he’s put on 20 pounds since joining Illinois, he is still a smaller guard, and he sits behind the likes of Trent Frazier, Te’Jon Lucas, Mark Smith, and Da’Monte Williams. As a walk-on, Underwood will be looked upon to give starters and other guys a break during contests that are out of hand. Expect Illinois faithful to go Gung-Ho when he does see the floor, though, because what fan base doesn’t love seeing these guys get a chance to get a garbage time bucket?