CHAMPAIGN, Ill — On March 22, 2022, Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman made a significant announcement that would reshape the future of the university's women's basketball program. Former Clinton Iowa River Queens coach, Shauna Green, was appointed as the new head coach, bringing a fresh perspective and a determination to elevate the team's performance.
Whitman expressed his satisfaction with the extensive interest the job attracted, emphasizing the university's prestigious standing in academics and its proud membership in the competitive Big Ten conference. Whitman highlighted the search for a coach who could instill a culture based on toughness and work ethic, prioritizing substance over flash.
"I want our identity based on toughness and work ethic. We're looking for substance, not flash – steak, not sizzle," Whitman said. "Every time the list of coaches mentioned by the committee — Shauna Green was on it."
Green, addressing the challenge ahead, acknowledged the difficulty but expressed her readiness for the task at hand.
"This is a process; it's going to take time. I don't know when we're going to be good. What we do every day will lead to some of the outcomes we want," she stated in March 2022.
The previous season had marked a surprise for Illinois women's basketball, securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2003. The team's progress drew attention, and highly touted recruit Divine Bourrage from Davenport North High School attended another game, this time against the Maryland Terrapins, alongside Destiny Jackson, a guard from Whitey Young High School in Chicago.
Addressing concerns about the team's recent losses, Bourrage emphasized her belief in herself and her commitment to making a positive impact on any program. "I believe in myself. When I attend college, it will be to make that program better and build a name for them and myself," she said.
Coach Green, aware of the need to earn the trust of fans through victories, also emphasized the pivotal role of recruiting in the team's success.
Despite being on the job for only a year and a half, Green and her team achieved a remarkable milestone by securing the school's first McDonald's All-American in 6-foot-1 wing Berry Wallace of Ohio since Destiny Williams earned the award in 2009 and Chatrice White in 2014.
In just a short period, Shauna Green has already made a significant impact on Illinois women's basketball, transforming a struggling program into a promising one. As the team continues to grow under her leadership, the future looks bright for the Fighting Illini on the court, especially in recruiting.
Before the game, Coach Green took the time to meet with Divine Bourrage, Destiny Jackson, and their families, expressing her gratitude for their attendance, particularly on Super Bowl Sunday. The message she conveyed was unmistakable, resonating deeply with Devon Binion, Bourrage's uncle.
"Coach Green is determined to win here. She's committed to working hard to attract players like my niece and the Jackson girl to join her program. In my eyes, recruiting is key. We know she can coach; she's a winner. After her speech, it was so powerful that she had a few of us in the room ready to throw on a uniform and hit the court."
Coach Green's team follows the motto #OneWay. This motto reflects not only a commitment to success on the court but also a unified approach that transcends individual achievements.
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