Brad Underwood focuses on new identity for Illinois MBB in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 13, 2026, 8:20 PM
Last updated Jul 13, 2026
Illinois men's basketball coach Brad Underwood is steering his team away from past success, including last season's Final Four run. As the 2026-27 roster develops during summer training, Underwood emphasizes that the team will cultivate its own identity and characteristics. He stresses the importance of mental approach and cultural foundations over recalling last year’s achievements. This period presents an opportunity to instill a new mentality among the players, fostering growth away from previous accolades as they prepare for the upcoming season.
- •Brad Underwood insists on a fresh start for Illinois MBB.
- •Focus is on building a unique team identity this summer.
- •The team aims to detach from last year's Final Four run.
- •Summer training emphasizes culture and communication.
- •Underwood aims to develop foundational habits for players.
- 8:20 PMYahoo Sports — Illinois MBB coach Brad Underwood refuses to dwell on Final Four past, turns page to 2026
"Following an historic Final Four run this past season, Illinois men's basketball coach Brad Underwood is ready for a fresh start. But the end goal remains identical.
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