Brad Underwood could stick with Illinois through 2036 because of new extension

The Illinois Fighting Illini like head basketball coach Brad Underwood, and they have plenty of reason to. He's led them to a 193-110 record since taking over in 2017 and he's had the Illini humming since at least 2020. This past season, Underwood and the Illini made it to the Final Four. It was the program's first Final Four since 2005 and just its third in this modern era of college basketball. Underwood, 62, has seemingly figured out the NIL and transfer portal era, and he has Illinois set to remain a contender for the foreseeable future, especially in the Big Ten. As such, it's no big surprise that the Illini have given Underwood a contract extension. It's a big one, too. Depending on team performance over the next four seasons, this extension of his existing six-year deal could run through June 2036. At the very least, he's locked in with the Illini through 2032, and he is expected to receive updated financial terms that will make him among the highest-paid coaches in college basketball. "Thanks to Brad Underwood's tireless leadership and relentless pursuit of championships, our men's basketball program has established itself as one of the nation's premier programs while rewriting much of our record book," said athletic director Josh Whitman in a statement.  "He has revitalized a proud fan base and elevated our program to new heights while competing in the most dynamic, high-stakes environment in college sports history. Brad's 'Every Day Guy' mentality is emblematic of our University and broader community, and it is an honor to continue partnering with him on this journey. My thanks to Brad, Susan, and their family for trusting us and believing in the inspiring, influential, and successful future of the University of Illinois and Fighting Illini Athletics." The elite are in Champaign.@CoachUnderwood is locked in through 2032 and could extend through 2036 based on team performance over the next four seasons.️ https://t.co/xGyBR9kdD1 pic.twitter.com/tDtXWPEEmo Underwood has led Illinois to six consecutive NCAA tournament appearances, becoming only the second coach in school history, alongside Lou Henson, to do that.  He's also positioned Illinois as a major player in the Big Ten.  The Fighting Illini are 96-44 in Big Ten play under Underwood. They have the most total wins over any other Big Ten program in league play during that time period and also the most Big Ten road wins (42). Illinois is also the only Big Ten team with a winning conference record in each of the last seven seasons. The Illini have become a model of consistent winning with Underwood as head coach, so he's undoubtedly earned every year of this extension. Andrew Kulha is probably the only sports writer you know who also doubles as a mortician. Spooky! @KulhaSports Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!