Brad Underwood

Brad Underwood serves as the current head coach for the Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball team. With a solid coaching record spanning numerous institutions including Oklahoma State, Stephen F. Austin, Dodge City Community College, and Daytona Beach Community College, Underwood has cultivated a reputation for excellence in the field. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, having been awarded Southland Coach of the Year three times and the Joe B. Hall Coach of the Year Award in 2014.

Underwood's teams have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the court, participating multiple times in the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament and achieving an overall NCAA head coaching record of 274–128. A particular highlight was his leadership of Stephen F. Austin to a flawless 18–0 record in Southland Conference play during his first season. Furthermore, Underwood's tenure at Illinois has been marked by significant victories, including leading the team to Big Ten tournament titles in 2021 and 2024, and securing a number one seed in the Midwest region of the 2021 NCAA men's basketball tournament.

Off the court, Underwood has shown commitment to the fight against cancer, hosting an annual fundraiser named "Kickin' Cancer" in Gifford, Illinois, and serving as the Council Chair of the Coaches vs. Cancer in 2024. His dedication to this cause was recognized when he was honored with the Coaches vs. Cancer Champion Award in 2023. Underwood's contract with Illinois has been extended through the 2029-30 season, a testament to his invaluable contribution to the institution and the sport.