Orange blazers were the style Monday at Illinois.
Former men’s basketball coach Lou Henson wore his traditional bright jacket as the university announced the naming of the State Farm Center court in his honor as he posed for photos with similarly dressed athletic director Mike Thomas, men’s coach John Groce and women’s coach Matt Bollant.
“Lou Henson Court” will have his signature on the floor of the State Farm Center along with a picture of an orange blazer and a pair of wings to represent his 1989 Flyin’ Illini team.
Henson called it an “unbelievable honor.”
“I never imagined my name might someday appear on the floor of this renowned building,” he said at the ceremony at Memorial Stadium.
The State Farm Center is undergoing massive renovation and the Illini won’t begin playing in their new digs and on the newly named court until Dec. 2.
Henson coached Illinois for 21 years, posting a 423-224 record with 12 NCAA tournament appearances, including the 1989 Final Four.
“Lou has made an incredible impact and contribution to Fighting Illini basketball and the university,” Thomas said. “This is a fitting tribute to one of the all-time great coaches and people to be associated with Illinois.”
