Forward Will Riley wrote an open letter to the Illinois Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball Program, Fans, and the Entire Fighting Illini Community. He expressed gratitude for believing in him, standing by him, and providing him with the space, structure, and spirit to grow not only as a basketball player but also as a young man.
When I initially arrived in Champaign, I had dreams. Big ones. But I never expected to be so warmly accepted by this community—by a university that exudes quality, a coaching staff that strives for greatness, teammates who have become brothers, and fans who are the lifeblood of every home game at State Farm Center. You all made Illinois seem like home the instant I put on my orange and blue jersey.
Coach Underwood and the staff—your faith in me has never wavered. You challenged me from the start to push myself, to improve every aspect of my game, and to bring leadership on and off the court. You did more than just teach basketball; you also taught accountability, discipline, and heart. For that, I am eternally grateful.
Thank you, comrades, for the battles, laughs, sweat, and late-night film sessions. Every minute we shared on and off the court has been a building brick of my path. The bond we formed will never be broken, and I carry the Illini brotherhood with me wherever I go.
To the fans: wow. You’ve been the lifeblood of our trip. Whether we were grinding out a win on the road or lighting up the scoreboard in front of a raucous home crowd, your energy never wavered. Your love reminded us every day that we are playing for something greater than ourselves. I’ll never forget the thrill of those game-winning moments, the echo of the crowd singing our names, and the numerous children carrying signs and dreaming big. You inspired me more than you’ll ever realize.
Thank you to the university and the larger Champaign-Urbana community for providing an environment for learning, growth, and belonging. You’ve helped me create the groundwork for a future that extends well beyond basketball.
This is not a goodbye, but a thank you and a promise. A pledge to carry what I’ve learned, the relationships I’ve formed, and the pride of being a Fighting Illini with me everywhere I go. Wherever life takes me, this adventure will always be a defining part in my story.
With enormous thanks and boundless pride,
Will Riley is a forward for the Illinois Fighting Illini men’s basketball team 🧡💙.