The Champaign Room - Coaching Carousel 2017: News, Rumors, and Updates that impact Illinois BasketballA Fighting Illini community since 2012https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48193/tcr-fave.png2017-03-20T17:38:34-05:00http://www.thechampaignroom.com/rss/stream/142877132017-03-20T17:38:34-05:002017-03-20T17:38:34-05:00WATCH: Illinois Basketball introduces Brad Underwood
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/DKhfrtNJSGkWBSAGd6vU1ebMyXQ=/46x0:621x383/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53792079/C7OhjB7X0AAPwkt__1_.0.jpeg" />
</figure>
<p>Here’s video of the press conference that took place on Monday afternoon.</p> <p id="G0KwyH"></p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/20/14990256/brad-underwood-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-press-conferenceJim Vainisi2017-03-20T12:38:59-05:002017-03-20T12:38:59-05:00LOOK: Brad Underwood’s contract details
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: NCAA Tournament-First Round-Michigan vs Oklahoma State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hjgDWIAyvktne_c5Q-qOlXYxdaE=/0x40:2656x1811/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53784349/usa_today_9949642.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The new Fighting Illini coach will make $2.75 million during his first year.</p> <p id="TaOmPt">The University of Illinois officially introduced Brad Underwood as their new head basketball coach on Monday afternoon. We’ll have video of the full press conference up on the site once it’s been made available by the athletic department, but for now, here are the full details on Underwood’s 6-year, $18 million contract.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="7KFWIv">
<p id="CTjOIT"><em>Note: Illinois will pay a $3 million buyout in order to secure Underwood’s full release from Oklahoma State.</em></p>
<div id="1zNLow"><div data-anthem-component="table:365030"></div></div>
<p id="50irKL">Additionally, Underwood will receive the following benefits as part of his contract:</p>
<p id="aVAZg5">- Eligibility for plans, programs, leave etc. open to employees<br>- Use of two automobiles<br>- Country club membership<br>- Relocation costs<br>- Ticket access</p>
<p id="XN0acP">There are also retention incentives in the agreement. If Underwood is still Illinois’ head coach on 5/1/2020, he’ll receive an extra $600,000; the same will happen a second time on 5/1/2022.</p>
<div id="g5vF5X"><div data-anthem-component="table:365053"></div></div>
<p id="eWJfnv">Lastly, the assistant salary pool (three full-time coaches) has increased to $850,000, and the support staff pool (six members) has been set at $550,000.</p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/20/14984480/brad-underwood-illinois-contract-details-fighting-illini-basketballJim Vainisi2017-03-18T17:22:20-05:002017-03-18T17:22:20-05:00REPORT: Brad Underwood plans to keep Jamall Walker
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: NCAA Tournament-First Round-Michigan vs Oklahoma State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/oXG6uHU-SysM16T1iWcxMSmunaw=/0x35:1710x1175/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53762383/usa_today_9949626.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Walker was rumored to have been receiving interest from Cuonzo Martin and Missouri.</p> <p id="NDxas7">The University of Illinois has officially hired Oklahoma State’s Brad Underwood as their next men’s basketball head coach. <a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/18/14968670/brad-underwood-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coach-reaction">The news was greeted with a wave of applause</a> from national and regional media members alike, and it’s clear that the move has also inspired a great deal of excitement from fans.</p>
<p id="alavci">Underwood’s contract will reportedly span six years for an estimated $18 million. He’ll soon begin the process of establishing a new coaching staff with the Fighting Illini, but one piece of that puzzle may already be in place.</p>
<p id="TxYAvg">According to The News-Gazette, <a href="http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2017-03-18/underwood-next-illini-basketball-coach.html">Underwood plans to retain interim coach Jamall Walker</a> upon completion of Illinois’ ongoing postseason appearance in the NIT.</p>
<p id="L2VZEG"><a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/16/14950706/cuonzo-martin-jamall-walker-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-missouri-tigers-staff">We reported on Thursday</a> that Missouri’s Cuonzo Martin was targeting Walker for a position on his staff, and that was understandably met with some frustration. Walker was the lead recruiter during Illinois’ pursuit of five-star big man Jeremiah Tilmon (IL), and the news seemed to indicate there was a chance of an eventual flip to the Tigers. Those worries can presumably be put completely to rest now.</p>
<p id="Ey04Gv">Lamont Evans, Mike Boynton Jr., and Danny Henderson are the three remaining assistants in place at Oklahoma State. It’s unknown at this point if Underwood plans to bring anyone along to Champaign to fill the remaining two slots.</p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/18/14969204/brad-underwood-jamall-walker-illinois-fighting-illini-basketballJim Vainisi2017-03-18T16:22:36-05:002017-03-18T16:22:36-05:00LOOK: National media loves Illinois, Brad Underwood
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Qecz4mOjzNf8FqFvJv2U3u72u-M=/0x0:1200x800/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53761967/C7Og5CHW4AMWqjD.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Local and national media members expect Brad Underwood, pictured with Josh Whitman, to bring Illini basketball back to relevance. | Josh Whitman / Fighting Illini Athletics</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Negative reactions were hard to find after Josh Whitman announced the next Illini hoops head coach Saturday afternoon.</p> <p id="IaFqsg">Illinois Basketball’s<a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/18/14968050/brad-underwood-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-contract-details-oklahoma-state-history"> hiring of now-former Oklahoma State head coach Brad Underwood</a> made Twitter waves among members of the national media Saturday afternoon.</p>
<p id="kWZkip">Several college basketball writers lauded Josh Whitman’s selection, citing Underwood’s powerful offense (Ranking No. 1 in the country this season per KenPom). </p>
<p id="88ojZ5">Former Illinois coach Bill Self added some positive thoughts of his own, and Illinois bloggers and fans seemed excited by the prospect of upgrading the coaching staff’s X’s and O’s.</p>
<p id="LizJ90">Also chiming in with almost universally positive reactions were several Big Ten school bloggers. Many were jealous, particularly of Underwood’s fast-paced style of play.</p>
<p id="85vSkp">Questions remain about how high school recruits and Illinois’ current players will react to Underwood’s hiring — he’s a relatively unknown coach who spent only one year at a major conference program — but one thing’s for sure: those who cover college basketball closely think Illinois got away with an absolute steal.</p>
<div id="uinaqQ">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome Coach Brad Underwood! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeWillWin?src=hash">#WeWillWin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ILLINI?src=hash">#ILLINI</a> <a href="https://t.co/9yqLI0Ce1x">pic.twitter.com/9yqLI0Ce1x</a></p>— Josh Whitman (@IlliniAD) <a href="https://twitter.com/IlliniAD/status/843194461194764289">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="fofO4c">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Illini?src=hash">#Illini</a> family, Coach Underwood! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeWillWin?src=hash">#WeWillWin</a> <br><br> <a href="https://t.co/LEX3LGMx1Y">https://t.co/LEX3LGMx1Y</a> <a href="https://t.co/K1GwbZq5nc">pic.twitter.com/K1GwbZq5nc</a></p>— Illini Basketball (@IlliniMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/IlliniMBB/status/843197049826934785">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="Ehb5aL">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Josh Whitman is my hero. Illinois AD crushed it with the search and didn't throw away $75K of school's money on... <a href="https://t.co/Pao5XY8lg8">https://t.co/Pao5XY8lg8</a></p>— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanESPN) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoodmanESPN/status/843195896762257408">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="wNOJts">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">WHOA. That, my friends, is a killer, killer, killer hire. <a href="https://t.co/udgkR7eEjY">https://t.co/udgkR7eEjY</a></p>— Sam Vecenie (@Sam_Vecenie) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sam_Vecenie/status/843191722674806784">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="2kxVOn">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great hire. <a href="https://t.co/gP0ENkayXp">https://t.co/gP0ENkayXp</a></p>— Big Ten Geek (@bigtengeek) <a href="https://twitter.com/bigtengeek/status/843191771827986436">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="A1HKix">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">To be a fan is to rejoice.</p>— John Gasaway (@JohnGasaway) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnGasaway/status/843191932398518272">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="0t1smt">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Josh Whitman did good. <a href="https://t.co/8l3U2c7tGx">https://t.co/8l3U2c7tGx</a></p>— Brian Hamilton (@BrianHamiltonSI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrianHamiltonSI/status/843192068361150467">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="X3kaIt">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I think Underwood is for sure a good coach. Will be interesting to see if he can recruit the area. That seems ... up in the air right now</p>— Ricky O'Donnell (@SBN_Ricky) <a href="https://twitter.com/SBN_Ricky/status/843194871104110592">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="x4QbAH">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Whoa. Brad Underwood is a hell of a hire for Illinois. Michigan fans saw it first-hand yesterday, but that guy can flat-out coach.</p>— Scott Bell (@sbell021) <a href="https://twitter.com/sbell021/status/843193133533970432">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="2vxjaR">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Brad Underwood was dangerous enough when he was coaching a small school in Nacogdoches, TX. Plug him into Chicago talent and, uh, watch out.</p>— Scott Bell (@sbell021) <a href="https://twitter.com/sbell021/status/843195037466984451">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="06sUU3">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Incredible. An AMAZING hire by Illinois. <a href="https://t.co/kOLeDSjWti">https://t.co/kOLeDSjWti</a></p>— Matt Norlander (@MattNorlander) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattNorlander/status/843193205453717505">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="yzcpn9">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">good news for all irritated by Northwestern being mildly good for 1.8 seconds: Illinois hired a coach who will ensure it never happens again</p>— Rodger Sherman (@rodger_sherman) <a href="https://twitter.com/rodger_sherman/status/843193266627624965">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="sJxr0S">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I stumped for Brad Underwood last year. His SFA teams dominated on both ends. Phenomenal basketball mind. Excellent tactician. Good hire.</p>— Brad Evans (@YahooNoise) <a href="https://twitter.com/YahooNoise/status/843195569766129665">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="DD9VJn">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/YahooNoise">@YahooNoise</a> those who complain about this hire aren't worth listening to because they don't know anything about basketball.</p>— Scott Van Pelt (@notthefakeSVP) <a href="https://twitter.com/notthefakeSVP/status/843195971995668481">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="G8b0Vq">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">As Huggy Bear disciple, Underwood will feature pressure, trapping defense. Teams generate TOs, fly. Unlike anything ILL has ever seen.</p>— Brad Evans (@YahooNoise) <a href="https://twitter.com/YahooNoise/status/843200645322756096">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="xpDuKs">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great Hire. <a href="https://t.co/v9UenTZE7x">https://t.co/v9UenTZE7x</a></p>— Martin O'Donnell (@MartinOD64) <a href="https://twitter.com/MartinOD64/status/843193304787406848">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="yLRmUD">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This is a hell of a hire. Underwood only made $1 million this past season, thought he could be open to a move. <a href="https://t.co/JWg1VvGExM">https://t.co/JWg1VvGExM</a></p>— Jeff Borzello (@jeffborzello) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeffborzello/status/843193240954331136">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="B94c1Z">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Going from the Tony Bennett rumors and his offense to Brad Underwood and his offense is some whiplash stuff.</p>— Tom Fornelli (@TomFornelli) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomFornelli/status/843193359653130251">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="ZKRzCj">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I can dig this. <a href="https://t.co/veIsCrvuxo">pic.twitter.com/veIsCrvuxo</a></p>— Tom Fornelli (@TomFornelli) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomFornelli/status/843194445495439360">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="U4SvlY">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just landed in Chicago. Brad Underwood to Illinois? Great hire for Illini. Knew at <a href="https://twitter.com/Big12Conference">@Big12Conference</a> contract talks were not going well. WOW!</p>— Fran Fraschilla (@franfraschilla) <a href="https://twitter.com/franfraschilla/status/843205943512973312">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="0EVqGg">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Not the name most expected.. But <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Illini?src=hash">#Illini</a> get a good coach in Brad Underwood. Winner. Had nation's most efficient offense this season.</p>— Derek Piper (@DPiperScout) <a href="https://twitter.com/DPiperScout/status/843193391768883200">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="tHL8El">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">GREAT HIRE!! RT <a href="https://twitter.com/GoodmanESPN">@GoodmanESPN</a>: Illinois has hired Oklahoma State’s Brad Underwood, sources told ESPN.</p>— Mac Irvin Fire (@TheMacIrvinFire) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMacIrvinFire/status/843200786440032256">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="0OYlLw">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wow. Hell of a hire. <a href="https://t.co/KW7tEj1vei">https://t.co/KW7tEj1vei</a></p>— Jeff (BPredict) (@BPredict) <a href="https://twitter.com/BPredict/status/843193889980907522">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="7gqZsi">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">next time Illinois needs a coach let's try to play Lorenzo Romar in the first round <a href="https://t.co/uUlnDefBlD">https://t.co/uUlnDefBlD</a></p>— mgoblog (@mgoblog) <a href="https://twitter.com/mgoblog/status/843195232762167296">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="yc8uLp">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">well, damn. that's gonna be fun. <a href="https://t.co/pde6O8UfwL">https://t.co/pde6O8UfwL</a></p>— Ace Anbender (@AceAnbender) <a href="https://twitter.com/AceAnbender/status/843193896138162178">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="S04RTq">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Illinois! What a steal. <a href="https://t.co/1bYeJhpmBd">https://t.co/1bYeJhpmBd</a></p>— Stewart Mandel (@slmandel) <a href="https://twitter.com/slmandel/status/843194562063429632">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="QVLjGc">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I am happy. I am very happy. <a href="https://t.co/xJyCnpJyQM">https://t.co/xJyCnpJyQM</a></p>— Will Leitch (@williamfleitch) <a href="https://twitter.com/williamfleitch/status/843195192693997570">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="GqOPrw">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/williamfleitch">@williamfleitch</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IlliniAD">@IlliniAD</a> you should be. I am not. Don't want to have to play that guy. Excellent coach.</p>— Scott Van Pelt (@notthefakeSVP) <a href="https://twitter.com/notthefakeSVP/status/843195481379553285">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="dfDXmL">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here's another fun thing for Illini fans: Like this guy, Underwood started his coaching career at Hardin-Simmons. <a href="https://t.co/ZpdbcJRAnN">pic.twitter.com/ZpdbcJRAnN</a></p>— Will Leitch (@williamfleitch) <a href="https://twitter.com/williamfleitch/status/843198799774466048">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="Fc8SXA">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Before this broke, a friend asked a few hours ago what I thought of Underwood. My response: I think he's one of those Basketball Whisperers.</p>— Robert (@ALionEye) <a href="https://twitter.com/ALionEye/status/843196072172441604">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="iXlVnc">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">If Illini planned to target coach who lost Fri, guess was Archie Miller. Surprise pick Brad Underwood has good rep, fast offense. Open mind.</p>— David Haugh (@DavidHaugh) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidHaugh/status/843200143335673856">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="cMHe4k">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bill Self: “From the outside looking it, it looked to me like Brad and OSU fit very well. … Illinois is a great basketball job.”</p>— George Schroeder (@GeorgeSchroeder) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeSchroeder/status/843200474115428352">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<div id="wx9uGz">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Illinois did a thing and all the people like it and I am so scared</p>— Tom Fornelli (@TomFornelli) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomFornelli/status/843196383565926400">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/18/14968670/brad-underwood-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coach-reactionMatt SilichTrevor Vallese2017-03-18T15:07:49-05:002017-03-18T15:07:49-05:00BREAKING: Illinois officially hires Brad Underwood
<figure>
<img alt="Oklahoma State v Michigan" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mn2beGhzGe54Lb94RCiG0SIR7kc=/0x0:2592x1728/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53761495/654517126.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Underwood’s resume includes a 109-27 overall record and four NCAA Tournaments</p> <p id="MrAKnY"><em><strong>UPDATE (3:30 CST):</strong></em><strong> </strong>Josh Whitman and the University of Illinois <a href="http://fightingillini.com/news/2017/3/18/mens-basketball-underwood-hired.aspx">have made it official</a>. Here are the statements that were included in the press release</p>
<h4 id="GmRk2M">Statement from Josh Whitman:</h4>
<blockquote><p id="rM4sor">“I am excited to welcome Brad Underwood, his wife Susan, and their three children to the Fighting Illini family. In searching for a new coach, we were looking for a proven winner who would build upon our proud tradition while developing an unmistakable identity for Illinois Basketball. Brad's teams play a fast, aggressive style and show unyielding toughness. They have a tremendous energy that I believe will ignite the Orange Krush and our fans to once again make State Farm Center one of the most intimidating venues in all of college basketball. Off the court, Brad builds strong, personal relationships with his student-athletes. His winning combination of strong Midwest values and tenacious work ethic are a perfect fit for our community and the Illini Nation.”</p></blockquote>
<h4 id="KVqiaY">Statement from Brad Underwood:</h4>
<blockquote><p id="GGfDLp">"Coaching basketball at the University of Illinois is a once-in-lifetime opportunity. The players, fans and administration at Oklahoma State have been absolutely incredible, and I want to thank them for the support they've given me and my family over the last year. However, during my time at Western Illinois, I always saw the Illinois coaching job as one of the truly best in the nation. I want to thank Josh Whitman for the opportunity to join the Fighting Illini family and look forward to working with him to build a championship program. I can't wait to get started with our team. Next season can't get here fast enough for me!"</p></blockquote>
<div id="KcH5L7">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome Coach Brad Underwood! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeWillWin?src=hash">#WeWillWin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ILLINI?src=hash">#ILLINI</a> <a href="https://t.co/9yqLI0Ce1x">pic.twitter.com/9yqLI0Ce1x</a></p>— Josh Whitman (@IlliniAD) <a href="https://twitter.com/IlliniAD/status/843194461194764289">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="KJzAzp">Underwood will be introduced as the head coach on Monday at the State Farm Center, and it’s fair to assume that he’ll in attendance at the team’s NIT matchup against Boise State.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="EDDoU6">
<p id="wTkIzU">According to a report from ESPN’s Jeff Goodman, Oklahoma State’s Brad Underwood will soon be named the new head coach of Illinois Fighting Illini basketball. The deal is worth an estimated $18 million over six years.</p>
<div id="zCz1NO">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Illinois has hired Oklahoma State’s Brad Underwood, sources told ESPN.</p>— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanESPN) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoodmanESPN/status/843191589258366976">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="Z8jxeU">In four seasons as a head coach, Underwood amassed a resume that includes a 109-27 overall record, three Southland Conference championships, and four NCAA Tournament appearances. Underwood’s coaching prowess became widely known in 2016 thanks to a brief Round of 32 run during his third and final season at Stephen F. Austin.</p>
<p id="5EIdjy">Underwood was named head coach of Oklahoma State following the 2015-16 season. In one year with the Cowboys, he guided the program to a 20-13 (9-9) record and No. 10 seed in the NCAA Tournament; their season ended on Friday following a 92-91 first round loss to Michigan.</p>
<p id="rivvxE">Illinois will be required to pay Oklahoma State <a href="http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/osusportsextra/oklahoma-state-coach-brad-underwood-s-contract-former-coach-travis/article_a615c136-3430-50f8-b453-862fde31006d.html">a buyout fee of $3 million</a> to secure Underwood’s release from a five-year, $6.3 million deal.</p>
<p id="Qihe0K">Underwood will replace John Groce, who was <a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/11/14872714/john-groce-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coaching-change-news">fired on March 11 with a disappointing 95-75 record across five years</a> in Champaign. Assistant coach Jamall Walker is currently leading the program on an interim basis in the NIT; it’s unknown at this time if he’ll be retained by the new regime. It seems Oklahoma State officials were just as surprised by this move as most of the nation was.</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="96OQPS">“Just spoke with an Oklahoma State official and was told Brad Underwood flew back with the team after Michigan game Friday, landing at 8 pm CT. There was no indication he was leaving. School official was stunned and learned about his hiring at Illinois via Twitter.”</p>
<p id="EOklU3"><em><strong>Andy Katz, ESPN Senior Writer</strong></em></p>
</blockquote>
<p id="Ft41wP">Underwood, 53, received his first assistant coaching gig in 1993, when he joined Jim Kerwin’s staff at Western Illinois. After a ten years on the Leatherneck’s bench, Underwood got his first head coaching opportunity at Daytona Beach Community College, where he led the Falcons to a 70-24 mark between 2003-06.</p>
<p id="5XdcFb">Underwood returned to the Division-I ranks shortly thereafter to serve as an assistant under Bob Huggins and Frank Martin at Kansas State from 2006-2012. A coaching change in Manhattan resulted in a move to South Carolina, where he remained through the 2012-13 campaign.</p>
<p id="bBcf3y">Underwood was hired by Oklahoma State in 2016, and he quickly turned around a program that was dead in the water under former head coach Travis Ford. The Cowboys’ win total immediately jumped from 12 to 20, resulting in an at-large bid for the NCAA Tournament.</p>
<p id="m2Z5FF">Here’s a more detailed year-by-year breakdown of Underwood’s head coaching career:</p>
<div id="7d5s3h"><div data-anthem-component="table:362618"></div></div>
<p id="g9LLRs">Illinois was clearly going after some bigger names during this job search, but the 2017-18 roster is one that seems poised for a return to the NCAA Tournament. There will obviously be an early learning curve for Underwood in the Big Ten, especially considering the fact that he has a career 3-12 record against ranked teams. But the national media seem to love this hire, and it’s hard to argue that Underwood isn’t a major upgrade from John Groce.</p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/18/14968050/brad-underwood-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-contract-details-oklahoma-state-historyJim Vainisi2017-03-17T22:40:25-05:002017-03-17T22:40:25-05:00Archie Miller refuses to comment on Illinois job
<figure>
<img alt="Wichita State v Dayton" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GaB-TzE0xX1krHPusqkXSdQKiqk=/0x0:1745x1163/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53756137/654619200.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A reporter asked about job rumors following Dayton’s loss to Wichita State.</p> <p id="zmHmdZ">The Dayton Flyers’ 2016-17 season officially ended on Friday night following a hard-fought 64-58 loss to the Wichita State Shockers in the NCAA Tournament. Naturally, the postgame press conference immediately featured a coaching carousel question for Archie Miller.</p>
<p id="9TDA3m">Specifically, Miller was asked about being tied to the job openings at Illinois and Indiana, to which he responded with a simple “no comment.”</p>
<div id="lTjyQ6">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Archie Miller immediately shut down a reporter who asked about him being tied to Indiana and Illinois job: "No Thoughts. Thanks."</p>— Josh Tolentino (@JCTSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/JCTSports/status/842927026206134272">March 18, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="cx2FpC">Obviously, any such inquires were always going to be met with a similar answer because Miller was just moments removed from an emotional locker room. Even so, he technically did not offer a denial in regards to the ongoing speculation. We’ll certainly take that for right now.</p>
<p id="JPqHsi">A good amount of Fighting Illini fans are lobbying to stay away from a mid-major hire this offseason, but <a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/2/10/14576478/archie-miller-illinois-basketball-rumors-john-groce-hot-seat">Miller is one of the few widespread exceptions to that preference</a>. That makes sense, too, because he’s compiled a 140-62 overall record and four NCAA Tournament appearances in six seasons at Dayton.</p>
<p id="RBCEFi">The Fighting Illini can’t officially name a new head coach until at least Tuesday morning, but with most other candidates still focused on coaching their teams, it’s likely that the next wave of rumors will center around Miller this weekend.</p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/17/14965272/archie-miller-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coaching-search-news-rumorsJim Vainisi2017-03-17T16:23:04-05:002017-03-17T16:23:04-05:00REPORT: N.C. State hires Kevin Keatts
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: NCAA Tournament-First Round-Virginia vs North Carolina-Wilmington" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/8-HibIsij2D97zkSRZOY4ECL3X4=/0x0:4514x3009/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53749321/usa_today_9946328.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>UNC Wilmington’s season ended on Thursday with a narrow first round loss to Virginia.</p> <p id="uQEcUJ"><em><strong>UPDATE (4:25pm CT):</strong></em> According to multiple reports, N.C. State has hired Kevin Keatts.</p>
<div id="2cOB3Q">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">NC State has reportedly agreed to hire UNC Wilmington’s Kevin Keatts:<a href="https://t.co/IxJXN05D7u">https://t.co/IxJXN05D7u</a></p>— SB Nation (@SBNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/SBNation/status/842850835096727552">March 17, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="xb9725">
<p id="n317UU">UNC Wilmington’s Kevin Keatts is considered by many to be an attractive fallback coaching option for Illinois basketball, but the program’s continued pursuit of better candidates may prevent any preliminary negotiations from taking place.</p>
<p id="blDlhL">According to CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein, Keatts has emerged as a top candidate for the N.C. State job, and he’ll be in Raleigh on Friday for an interview.</p>
<div id="onlsmd">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">NC State will meet today with UNC-Wilmington's Kevin Keatts, per multiple sources. Has emerged as a primary candidate to fill vacancy.</p>— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/842781478647992320">March 17, 2017</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="Dj78OS">Keatts, a former Louisville assistant, has just completed his third season as a collegiate head coach. He’s amassed a 72-28 overall record, three CAA Conference championships, and two NCAA Tournament appearances in that short time frame.</p>
<p id="uzgvM5">UNC Wilmington’s impressive 2016-17 season ended with a narrow 76-71 first round loss to No. 5 seed Virginia in the NCAA Tournament.</p>
<p id="QxQww2">It’s clear that Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman has been aiming higher throughout this job search, however it’s a bit worrying that some of the notable ‘Tier B’ options are beginning to disappear. Of course, this becomes a moot point if the Fighting Illini are indeed able to land a name like <a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/15/14929240/tony-bennett-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coach-search-news-rumors">Tony Bennett</a> or <a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/17/14956050/gregg-marshall-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coaching-search-news-rumors">Gregg Marshall</a>.</p>
<p id="kICkMe">For more on Keatts’ situation, make sure to check out <a href="http://www.backingthepack.com/">SB Nation’s N.C. State sister site</a>. You can also check out a more in-depth profile of the UNC Wilmington coach <a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/2/15/14614524/kevin-keatts-illinois-basketball-rumors-john-groce-hot-seat">right here</a>.</p>
<p id="spvb1x"></p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/17/14960836/kevin-keatts-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coaching-search-news-nc-state-wolfpackJim Vainisi2017-03-17T09:05:01-05:002017-03-17T09:05:01-05:00Wichita State’s Gregg Marshall will listen to job offers
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: Missouri Valley Conference Tournament-Wichita State Shockers vs Illinois State Redbirds" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/XrZwQIjwOGO3DbmxZR9K745RAlU=/0x0:3031x2021/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53742047/usa_today_9920117.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Marshall made some interesting comments to media members on Thursday.</p> <p id="Uke80q">Does Illinois basketball have any chance at luring Gregg Marshall away from Wichita State? Based on <a href="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/18926712/gregg-marshall-wichita-state-shockers-exit-ultimately-maybe">his most recent comments</a>, one would assume there’s <em>at least</em> a small opportunity for the Fighting Illini to pull off a home run hire.</p>
<p id="I55GCM">Marshall is clearly very happy with his current situation, but when asked about the college basketball coaching landscape on Thursday, he reiterated his willingness to entertain other job offers. For whatever it’s worth, the following statement was made a day in advance of the Shockers’ NCAA Tournament game against Dayton.</p>
<blockquote><p id="dhgwzc">"Ultimately, maybe I'll take [another job]. But right now, we're very, very happy where we are. ... We're very content. But at the same time, we don't bury our head in the sand. I've said that before. We listen. Maybe there will be a time for us to make a move, but I don't know when that's going to be."</p></blockquote>
<p id="EcFh5Q">From the outside looking in, you’ve got to wonder if that ‘right time’ is fast approaching. While Wichita State is in the middle of a remarkable six-year stretch, they’ve consistently been the victim of low seeding and tough bracket draws. This year, for example, the Shockers are the No. 5 overall team in <a href="http://kenpom.com/">the KenPom rankings</a>, yet the selection committee awarded them with a laughable No. 10 seed. How much more of that can Marshall take?</p>
<p id="lmW97M">Marshall’s current salary at Wichita State is $3.3 million per year. <a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/15/14929240/tony-bennett-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coach-search-news-rumors">Illinois has a reported $25 million at their disposal</a>, meaning financial logistics shouldn’t be a hindrance this time around. Rather, a bigger concern would be that the vacancy in Champaign got knocked down a peg thanks to <a href="http://www.crimsonquarry.com/2017/3/16/14824086/tom-crean-fired-as-indiana-head-coach">Indiana’s decision to fire Tom Crean</a>. Marshall will likely get a call from the Hoosiers, and assuming he’s actually interested in a fresh start, that’s a better job.</p>
<p id="18fjHs">But perhaps someone should start by simply providing Marshall with a list of openings.</p>
<blockquote><p id="Ri9fjh">"There's been no discussion of any of these jobs. In fact, I don't even know what jobs are open, to be honest."</p></blockquote>
<p id="vJoOxm">Somebody please inform Marshall that Illinois is, in fact, looking for a new head coach. Feel free to forward him <a href="http://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/13/14913662/illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coaching-news-rumors-job-posting">the university’s official job application</a>, too. Thanks.</p>
https://www.thechampaignroom.com/2017/3/17/14956050/gregg-marshall-illinois-fighting-illini-basketball-coaching-search-news-rumorsJim Vainisi