Brad Underwood Email & Phone Number

Brad Underwood is a well-respected college basketball coach known for his high-energy, fast-paced coaching style and his ability to develop young talent. Underwood has built a reputation as a no-nonsense coach who demands the best from his players and motivates them to reach their highest potential. His coaching philosophy centers around hard work, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence on and off the court.

Born and raised in McPherson, Kansas, Underwood developed a passion for basketball at a young age. He played at Kansas State University, where he was a standout player known for his tenacity and strong work ethic. After graduating, Underwood quickly transitioned into coaching, starting as an assistant coach at Western Illinois University before working his way up the ranks to become head coach at Stephen F. Austin University.

Underwood's coaching career really took off during his time at Stephen F. Austin, where he transformed the program into a powerhouse in the Southland Conference. Under his leadership, the team achieved unprecedented success, including three conference championships and multiple NCAA tournament appearances. Underwood's ability to develop players and implement a fast-paced, high-scoring offensive system earned him recognition as one of the top up-and-coming coaches in college basketball.

In 2016, Underwood was hired as head coach at Oklahoma State University, marking a significant step in his coaching career. While at Oklahoma State, Underwood continued to showcase his coaching prowess, guiding the team to a strong start in the Big 12 conference and earning a spot in the NCAA tournament. His impact on the program was evident as the team demonstrated marked improvement under his direction, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier coach in the college basketball landscape.

Underwood's success at Oklahoma State caught the attention of the University of Illinois, and in 2017, he was named head coach of the Fighting Illini. Underwood's arrival brought a renewed sense of optimism and excitement to the program, as fans and players alike were eager to witness his impact on the team. Underwood wasted no time in implementing his coaching style and philosophy, emphasizing the importance of hard work, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Underwood's tenure at Illinois has been marked by steady improvement and a return to the national spotlight for the program. His ability to develop and motivate players has been evident in the team's performances, as several players have flourished under his guidance and gone on to achieve individual success. Underwood's coaching acumen has also been reflected in the team's on-court performance, as the Fighting Illini have made significant strides and have consistently been competitive in the Big Ten conference.

Underwood's impact extends beyond the basketball court, as he is known for his commitment to developing well-rounded individuals and instilling values that extend beyond the game. His emphasis on academics, character development, and community engagement has made a lasting impact on the players under his tutelage, and his influence has been felt throughout the Illinois program.

As Underwood continues to leave his mark on the college basketball landscape, it's clear that his coaching legacy is only just beginning. His relentless work ethic, uncompromising commitment to excellence, and ability to develop young talent have positioned him as one of the premier coaches in the sport. Underwood's passion for the game and dedication to his players make him a respected figure in the coaching community, and there's no doubt that his impact will continue to be felt for many years to come.