Peoria Standard

In recognition of the hard work the University of Illinois’ men’s basketball team put in as they competed in March Madness this year, Sen. Sally Turner (R-Lincoln) welcomed the 2021-2022 Fighting Illini to Springfield on April 5.

“Was happy to welcome the U of I men’s basketball team to the Statehouse yesterday. Congratulations to them on a great season and winning the Big Ten Conference title!” Turner posted on Facebook.

The men’s basketball team at the U of I was crowned Big 10 Champs in early March of this year. With the support of ten players, the Illini managed to tackle a 15-point deficit against Iowa, which also won nine out of the last ten games.

The team earned the fourth seed in the South Region going into the tournament. 

Coach Brad Underwood’s contract has been extended through 2028 after this winning season. It will be the third extension to the contract during his tenure. The initial contract was through the 2023 season, which was worth $18 million. In September 2021, Underwood's contract was re-extended through the 2027 season after Illinois won the Big Ten Tournament. “Brad Underwood has led a remarkable resurgence of our men’s basketball program,” Director of Athletics Josh Whitman said.