Independence Community College announces a National Tournament college basketball coach will headline its 2026 commencement ceremony.
ICC says University of Illinois Head Men’s Basketball Coach Brad Underwood will serve as this year’s commencement speaker and will also be honored as a Distinguished Alumnus. The ceremony is set for Saturday, May 16th at 10:00am inside the FirstOak Bank and Oakes Family Fieldhouse. Underwood, who has led Illinois since 2017, has built one of the top programs in Division I basketball. The Fighting Illini have recorded six straight 20-win seasons, multiple Big Ten championships, and reached the NCAA Elite Eight in 2024 and are currently in the Sweet 16.
ICC Foundation Executive Director Cody Oates says Underwood’s journey from ICC to national success shows what’s possible for students. Interim President Taylor Crawshaw says Underwood’s story reflects the hard work and foundation built at ICC and will resonate with graduates. Underwood’s return marks a full-circle moment as the school celebrates the Class of 2026.
