Brad Underwood Signs New Contract with Illinois
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Illinois head coach Brad Underwood has finalized a new six-year deal extending through the end of the 2030-31 season, as announced by Illinois Director of Athletics Josh Whitman on Tuesday. The agreement awaits approval from the University of Illinois Board of Trustees at its May 22 meeting.
Commitment to Excellence
“I appreciate Brad and Susan for their dedication to the University of Illinois and Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball,” said Whitman. “Since Brad joined us, he has revitalized our program, making Illinois a consistent contender for the Big Ten championship and a regular participant in the NCAA Tournament. Amid significant changes in college athletics, he remains committed to his core values while adapting to ensure the program’s competitiveness at the highest level. Brad has become a trusted ally, and I look forward to working together to maximize our men’s basketball program’s potential.”
Grateful Leadership
“On behalf of my wife Susan and our family, I want to express our gratitude to everyone who makes Illinois a remarkable place,” said Underwood. “There’s strong alignment here, starting with our incredible athletic director Josh Whitman. This foundation, along with our talented players and dedicated staff, has fostered our successes. Thank you to everyone who has supported our program and committed to winning.”
Successful Seasons Ahead
Underwood’s eighth season saw the Illini building on their successful past. Despite losing all five starters following a strong NCAA Elite Eight finish in 2024, Illinois remained ranked in the Top 25 for most of the season, achieving 22 wins and advancing to the Round of 32 in the NCAA Tournament, finishing 17th in kenpom. Notably, Illinois maintained its sixth consecutive 20-win regular season, making them one of only four teams nationwide to accomplish this.
Dominance in the Big Ten
In recent years, the Big Ten has established itself as a premier conference, with the Fighting Illini emerging as leaders, holding an 81-39 record in conference play under Underwood’s leadership. During this span, they tied for the most wins in league action and set records for road victories. Illinois stands as the only team with a winning Big Ten record over the past six years, marking their most successful stretch in the program’s history.
Achievement and Recognition
Underwood has led Illinois to three Big Ten championships within the last five years, the most in the conference. He is among a select group of coaches to win multiple Big Ten Tournament titles and has driven the Illini to consistent NCAA Tournament appearances. Illinois has participated in five consecutive tournaments, achieving high seeds including the fourth No. 1 seed in school history in 2021.
New Contract Details
Underwood’s new contract extends through June 30, 2031, with the possibility of additional extensions based on performance. His annual salary starts at $4.4 million, along with eligibility for retention incentives and various bonuses. Importantly, the contract includes protections for the University against his departure for other coaching roles. The Board of Trustees is set to consider this extension at their meeting on May 22, 2025.
