The Illinois Fighting Illini, under the guidance of head coach Brad Underwood, have clinched their first Final Four appearance in over two decades, sparking a wave of celebration and nostalgia among basketball fans and former players alike. Among those celebrating is Darren Kent, a former Kansas State forward, who took to social media to highlight the elite coaching pedigree he experienced during his time at K-State.
Back in 2006, Kansas State boasted a remarkable coaching staff with Bob Huggins as head coach, Frank Martin as the lead assistant, and Brad Underwood further down the bench. This trio, known for their basketball acumen, successfully revitalized a struggling program.
Underwood’s journey to the pinnacle of college basketball with Illinois now adds him to the list of coaches from that K-State staff who have reached the Final Four. Kent aptly captured this sentiment on social media, marveling at the “three Final Four coaches on one staff.”
Reflecting on those days, it’s easy to see how this coaching group transformed Kansas State’s fortunes. Huggins, though only at K-State for a single season before heading to West Virginia, laid the groundwork with a 23-win season and an NIT appearance. Martin and Underwood continued the momentum, bringing in standout players like Michael Beasley and Jacob Pullen, and maintaining a winning culture.
From 2006 to 2012, K-State enjoyed six consecutive 20-win seasons and four NCAA Tournament appearances, highlighted by a thrilling run to the Elite Eight in 2010. The success didn’t stop there; Bruce Weber, another coach with Final Four credentials, took over and led the Wildcats to a Big 12 championship in 2013.
Underwood, a Kansas native and former K-State player himself, remains a beloved figure in Manhattan for his contributions during this era. His recent achievement with Illinois has prompted an outpouring of support from former players and fans. Jordan Henriquez expressed his joy for Underwood’s success, particularly for his role in developing stars like Keaton Wagler.
However, Underwood’s success also stirs some mixed feelings among the K-State faithful. Many lament the missed opportunity to hire him as head coach, as he climbed the ranks from Stephen F. Austin to Oklahoma State, and finally to Illinois.
Adding to the bittersweet sentiment, Underwood’s Final Four appearance continues a trend where coaches with K-State ties achieve this milestone with other programs. Notable names include Lon Kruger, Dana Altman, Bob Huggins, Frank Martin, and Bruce Weber, all reaching the Final Four elsewhere.
This weekend, Underwood has the chance to elevate his legacy further. If Illinois triumphs over Connecticut and then secures victory against either Arizona or Michigan, he would become the first from this distinguished group to win a national championship.
Many of his former K-State players will undoubtedly be cheering him on, hoping to see him achieve this historic feat.