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SR 759

CONGRATS-FIGHTING ILLINI

104th Regular Session Introduced by Paul Faraci

The Illinois Senate commends the Fighting Illini for reaching the 2026 Final Four, posting 24–7 regular-season and 15–5 conference records, and sustaining 7 straight 20+ win season

Resolution Adopted
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Bill Summary · SR 759

Summary of SR 759 (104th General Assembly, Illinois)

Purpose and intent

  • The bill is a Senate Resolution congratulating the University of Illinois Men’s Basketball Team, the Fighting Illini, on their 2025-26 season achievements.
  • It recognizes the team as reaching the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament, marking the sixth Final Four appearance in program history.

Key provisions and changes

  • Formal commendation of the Fighting Illini for:
    • Reaching the Final Four in 2026, including historical context (third Final Four appearance since 1985 expansion; comparisons to 1988-89 Flyin’ Illini and 2004-05 team).
    • An overall regular-season record of 24–7, the most regular-season wins for the Illini in 20 years.
    • A conference record of 15–5 in the Big Ten, tying for the second-most conference wins in program history.
    • Being one of only four prominent programs nationally with 20+ regular-season wins in each of the past seven years (alongside Gonzaga, Houston, and San Diego State).
  • Acknowledgment of the contributions from:
    • Student-athletes, coaches, and support staff for dedication, sportsmanship, and academic commitment.
    • The leadership of Athletic Director Josh Whitman.
    • Head Coach Brad Underwood, highlighting his achievement in Big Ten coaching history.
  • Formal statement that the Illinois Senate wishes the team continued success and notes the broader role of the university system in community pride and economic/cultural vitality.
  • The resolution directs that suitable copies be presented to the coaches and players.

Who is affected

  • Primary beneficiaries are the University of Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball team (players, coaches, support staff) and the broader University of Illinois community (alumni, students, supporters) who recognize and celebrate the team’s achievements.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Filed: May 5, 2026
  • Referred to Assignments and approved for Consideration Assignments on May 5, 2026
  • Referred to Congratulatory Consent Calendar on May 5, 2026
  • Adopted: May 7, 2026
  • As a resolution, it provides formal recognition without imposing legal changes or fiscal obligations.

Additional notes

  • Co-sponsor: Paul Faraci
  • The document serves as a ceremonial honor, conveying commendation and appreciation rather than legislative policy or funding decisions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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