He’s a well-known basketball coach, primarily recognized for his impactful career in men’s collegiate basketball. Most notably, he made a name for himself as the head coach of the University of Illinois’ Fighting Illini men’s team, a role he held from 2003 to 2012. During that time, he led the team to remarkable success, including a memorable runner-up finish in the 2005 NCAA Tournament. That same year, his outstanding leadership earned him the prestigious Naismith Coach of the Year award—an honor that truly solidified his reputation in the coaching world.
Before all the fame and accolades, his journey began at Western Kentucky University during the 1979–1980 season, where he got his first real taste of coaching under the guidance of Gene Keady. When Keady moved on to Purdue, he followed closely behind, stepping into an assistant coaching role that would span an impressive 18 years. It was there that he honed his skills, developed his coaching philosophy, and built the foundation for what would become a storied career.
He was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where his love for the game first took root. From those early days in the Midwest to leading one of the nation’s top college programs, his path reflects dedication, perseverance, and a deep passion for basketball. And throughout it all, his influence as a coach continues to leave a lasting mark on the sport.
Back in 2012, he took on the role of men’s basketball coach for the Kansas State Wildcats, marking a pivotal moment in his coaching career. Then, just a year later in 2013, he made a huge impact by earning the Big 12 Coach of the Year honor. That season, he guided the Wildcats to an impressive 27-8 record, which included a shared Big 12 conference title. His leadership really stood out, and it was clear that he was making a difference with the team. He definitely proved himself as a strong force on the sidelines, and fans began to take serious notice of his strategic mind and ability to motivate the players. He had arrived, and he was doing it with style and substance.