Illinois basketball coach Brad Underwood’s surprise postgame visit to Wisconsin locker room turns heads | Sporting News

The Illinois basketball team has been struggling lately, losing two consecutive games by a wide margin.

Not only have they lost, but theyve also been plagued by injuries, the flu, and another virus that is currently affecting the team.

It seems there is no clear way to turn things around until the sickness passes and the players are able to regain their strength.

The timing couldnt be worse, with only four regular-season games remaining.

To make matters even worse, the Fighting Illini are set to face No.

3 Duke at Madison Square Garden on Saturday night.

Illinois is still on track for the NCAA Tournament, but if the sickness doesnt clear up soon, theyll struggle to find any kind of rhythm.

After the game, head coach Brad Underwood decided not to shake hands with the opposing team due to the illness circulating within the program.

This decision sparked skepticism across the country, with many questioning whether Underwood was simply being unsportsmanlike.

Illinois was defeated by Wisconsin in a devastating way.

The game was close at halftime, but in the second half, the Badgers' veteran leadership proved too much for the Fighting Illini.

After the game, Underwood met with Wisconsin players to praise them.

Applauded their veteran-laden team.

Compared them to Illinois last season, when they had Marcus Domask and Terrence Shannon Jr., Carson Gourdie posted.

Underwood said experience is great to have.

Wished the Badgers the best of luck to stay healthy.

Underwood wasnt exaggerating.

Wisconsin is led by the big three of John Tonje, Steven Crowl, and Carter Gilmore.

This trio has been crucial to Wisconsins overall success throughout the season.

Underwoods actions reflect his character and help explain why so many people in the college basketball community deeply respect him.

The most important thing for Underwood and his squad now is to get healthy and find their rhythm again before its too late..

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