- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Illinois Coach Brad Underwood Committed to Staying in Champaign
Underwood's agent says the Final Four coach has no plans to leave the Fighting Illini anytime soon.
Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:56pm
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
The Illinois basketball team's Final Four appearance is captured in a cubist, geometric style, reflecting the program's rise to national prominence under coach Brad Underwood.Champaign TodayAfter leading Illinois to the Final Four, head coach Brad Underwood has no intention of leaving the program, according to his agent Bret Just. Just said Underwood 'literally loves this place' and is committed to winning a national championship with the Fighting Illini.
Why it matters
Underwood has transformed Illinois into a perennial Big Ten and national title contender since taking over in 2017. Keeping him in Champaign is crucial for the program's continued success and ability to compete at the highest level.
The details
Underwood's agent Bret Just said the coach will remain at Illinois until his current contract expires, dismissing any speculation about him leaving the program. Just noted that Underwood is especially motivated to win a national title with his son Tyler, who is an assistant coach on the staff.
- Illinois reached the Final Four for the first time since 2005 this past season.
- Underwood has led the Fighting Illini to at least 20 wins in each of the last six seasons.
The players
Brad Underwood
The head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball team, who has led the program to new heights including a Final Four appearance in 2026.
Bret Just
The agent for Illinois head coach Brad Underwood, who says Underwood has no plans to leave the Fighting Illini anytime soon.
Tyler Underwood
The assistant coach for the Illinois Fighting Illini and the son of head coach Brad Underwood.
What they’re saying
“I would actually be very surprised if he didn't. I don't see that time coming any time soon — like, it's nothing we've talked about.”
— Bret Just, Agent for Brad Underwood
“He literally loves this place, he loves this team, he's loved the past several teams. I think ... the fact that he gets to enjoy this with his family members — specifically [assistant coach and son] Tyler — makes it all the more worthwhile and special.”
— Bret Just, Agent for Brad Underwood
What’s next
Underwood will have the opportunity to build on Illinois' Final Four run and continue establishing the program as a national power in the coming seasons.
The takeaway
Retaining Brad Underwood as head coach is crucial for Illinois to maintain its status as an elite college basketball program. Underwood's commitment to the Fighting Illini and desire to win a national title with his son provide stability and optimism for the program's future.
