Chambana Sun

Illinois head coach Brad Underwood has agreed to a new six-year contract, extending his tenure through the end of the 2030-31 season. The announcement was made by Illinois Director of Athletics Josh Whitman and is pending approval from the University of Illinois Board of Trustees at their meeting on May 22.

"I am grateful to Brad and Susan for their commitment to the University of Illinois and Fighting Illini Men's Basketball," said Whitman. He praised Underwood for rebuilding the program and making it a strong contender in the Big Ten championship and NCAA Tournament. "Brad has become a trusted friend, and I look forward to partnering with him to realize the full potential of our men's basketball program in the years ahead."

Underwood expressed his gratitude: "On behalf of my wife Susan and our entire family, a sincere thank you to all who make Illinois such a special place." He acknowledged the support from athletic director Josh Whitman, university administration, Board of Trustees, players, assistant coaches, staff, fans, and donors. "I look forward to many more exciting years ahead as we all continue to work relentlessly in pursuing a national championship for the Fighting Illini."

Underwood's eighth year in Champaign saw Illinois ranked in the Top 25 for most of the 2024-25 season. Despite losing key players from an NCAA Elite Eight team in 2024, they achieved 22 victories and advanced to the Round of 32 in their fifth consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.

The Illini have excelled under Underwood's leadership with an impressive record in Big Ten play over six years. They are tied for most wins (81) during this period while leading in league road wins (34) and regular-season plus conference tournament wins combined (88). The team also boasts a winning Big Ten record each year.

Underwood has guided Illinois to three Big Ten championships over five years. His success includes two Big Ten Tournament titles (2021, 2024) and a regular-season crown (2022). His achievements rank second only to Harry Combes' four titles.

During Underwood's tenure, Illinois has participated in five consecutive NCAA Tournaments and earned top-four seeds three times. Their run included reaching the Elite Eight in 2024—their first Regional Final since 2005.

The resurgence under Underwood has led to increased attendance at State Farm Center with record ticket revenues exceeding $7.8 million last year alone. Home games have seen 43 sellouts post-pandemic while ranking among top national attendance figures.

Underwood's new contract includes performance-based extensions potentially lasting until June 30th, 2035 along with salary starting at $4.4 million annually plus retention incentives beginning July first next year growing annually thereafter along with various bonuses including signing bonus longevity rewards performance bonuses meaningful protections against departure pursuing other coaching opportunities

The University's Board will consider approving Coach Underwoods extension Thursday May twenty-second two thousand twenty-five