‘We’re Really Together’: [9] Illinois Brings Close-Knit Connection, Togetherness into Big Ten Tournament

Coach Green is one of the biggest reasons behind the team’s togetherness. The staff has an open-door policy, meaning players can come and discuss any issues they are having at any time. Green does not shy away from having hard conversations, and the entire coaching staff emphasizes togetherness, both on and off the court.

Green hosted pool parties at her house over the summer, and the players and staff went to a ropes course and did a slip-and-slide together prior to the season. Despite the change in weather and increased hustle and bustle during the 2023-24 campaign, the Illini have found opportunities to continue to grow their relationships any chance they get.

“When I first got here, everyone was a little bit shy. It took a little bit for everyone to gel and come out of their shell, but we did a lot of really fun stuff together this summer,” said Shay Bollin, who transferred into the program this season. “We did a lot of team-building activities that really brought us closer and forced us to trust one another even when we weren’t at that level yet. 

“I just know that I could go to any person on this team with any problem or anything that I have, which is so special. I think we’ve definitely grown a lot closer, especially through adversity and through winning. When you’re chasing something with a group of people, you’re all wanting the same goal, and you’re all trying to do the same thing, you all automatically come together. That’s what’s really been emphasized by our coaching staff.”