The hiring of John Groce as the next head basketball coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini is imminent, according to the Chicago Tribune. The Illini have decided Groce is their man -- now, both sides just need to iron out a contract. That's currently where we're stuck.
Groce, who makes $300,000 annually as coach of the Ohio Bobcats, is asking for an eight-year, $11 million contract ($1,375,000 per season). The Illini are offering a five or six year deal worth about $1.2 million per season.
Assistant coaches are also a sticking point. Jerrance Howard, an assistant under Bruce Weber who's currently acting as Illinois' interim coach, will make $180,000 next season. That's what Groce is asking for for his top assistants.
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