Illinois head coach Brad Underwood spoke to the media on Saturday ahead of his team’s NCAA Tournament second-round matchup against Kentucky in Milwaukee. He addressed various topics, including the performance of his younger players, the international influence on his roster, and the resilience of his team throughout the season.
On Freshman Development
Underwood emphasized the importance of leadership within the team, stating that when players take charge, it significantly impacts the group’s success. He acknowledged Tre, Kylan, and Ty’s contributions, pointing out that experience plays a crucial role in navigating the highs and lows of a season. He also praised Will Riley for being receptive to advice from his teammates.
Reflecting on Illinois vs. Kentucky in 1984
When asked about the last NCAA Tournament meeting between Illinois and Kentucky in 1984—which led to a rule prohibiting teams from hosting tournament games on their home courts—Underwood admitted he had little recollection of the event. However, he supported the rule, noting that the game has evolved, and neutral sites have become a fair solution.
Recruiting International Talent
Underwood explained that the basketball world is tightly connected, making it easier to scout overseas talent. He highlighted Kasparas, who had played at a high level in Barcelona, and the 7’1″ twins, Tommy and his brother, as key international additions. He credited Illinois’ diverse campus and strong player development program for attracting these players. The team’s ongoing efforts to recruit internationally have been aided by NIL opportunities.
Overcoming Adversity This Season
When questioned about whether he feared the season might spiral after a rough patch, Underwood dismissed the notion, attributing concerns to external speculation rather than his own evaluation. He cited injuries, illnesses, and limited practice time as challenges but never doubted his team’s resilience. He also reflected on defensive adjustments he wished he had implemented sooner but couldn’t due to injuries.
Identifying Competitive Traits in Recruits
Underwood explained that Illinois evaluates potential players not just by their skills but also by personality tests that assess competitiveness, teamwork, and work ethic. He noted that the program prioritizes players who are willing to sacrifice for the team.
Kylan’s Leadership Role
Underwood praised Kylan’s leadership at just 19, noting that while many young athletes struggle with communication, Kylan isn’t afraid to hold teammates accountable. He acknowledged that leadership takes time to develop, but Kylan’s dedication and desire to win make him a natural fit for the role.
Morez’s Underrated Impact
Underwood described Morez as an unsung hero, highlighting his consistent rebounding and elite defense. He pointed out that Morez’s contributions became more apparent when he was unavailable, and his return has given the team a stronger chance to reach its potential.
The Changing Landscape of College Basketball
Underwood acknowledged that roster turnover has become the norm, especially with the transfer portal and NIL opportunities. He compared the current climate to his time coaching junior college basketball, where building a new team each season was common. He commended Kentucky coach Mark Pope for successfully assembling a competitive team in a short period.
Bringing Orlando Back to the Staff
Underwood spoke highly of assistant coach Orlando, calling him a positive influence and a great communicator. He described Orlando as someone who balances his own coaching style, which often leans toward focusing on areas that need improvement. Underwood also noted that Orlando’s upbeat personality and ability to make others laugh bring significant value to the team.
Overall, Underwood’s comments highlighted his confidence in his team, the strategic approach behind Illinois’ roster construction, and his appreciation for the staff and players contributing to the program’s success.
