Brad Underwood Richmond Family Endowed Men’s Head Basketball Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Brad Underwood Richmond Family Endowed Men’s Head Basketball Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Illinois Head Men's Basketball Coach Brad Underwood announced the addition of Kevin Kruger to the Fighting Illini staff as Assistant to the Head Coach. Underwood expressed enthusiasm for Kruger's appointment, stating, "When the opportunity arose to add a basketball mind and a person the caliber of Kevin Kruger to our staff, it was a no-brainer." He praised Kruger's extensive experience as both a player and coach.
Kruger is returning to Champaign, where he previously lived and played at Centennial High School during his father's tenure as head coach of the Fighting Illini from 1996-2000. "I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join the Fighting Illini staff and come back to a place that is so special to me and my family," said Kruger.
Before joining Illinois, Kruger spent six seasons at UNLV. He served as an assistant coach under T.J. Otzelberger before becoming head coach in 2020-21. His leadership led UNLV to four consecutive winning seasons and a notable run in the NIT quarterfinals in 2023-24.
Kruger's coaching career began as a graduate assistant at Oklahoma, followed by roles at Northern Arizona and later on his father's staff at Oklahoma. As a player, he had stints with Arizona State and UNLV before playing professionally in various countries.
Kruger holds degrees from Arizona State University and Oklahoma. He is married with three children.
Alerts Sign-up