GIFFORD, IL (Chambana Today) — A sold-out crowd of 1,800 packed Gordyville USA on Wednesday night as Brad Underwood and the Illinois Fighting Illini men’s basketball headlined the annual Coaches vs. Cancer Kickin’ Cancer Dinner & Auction.
The event, presented by Gibson Area Hospital, celebrated Illinois’ Final Four season while raising money for the American Cancer Society.
Among those in attendance were standout guard Keaton Wagler, who recently declared for the NBA Draft, and forward David Mirković, who announced he will return to Illinois next season. Also present were the Ivisic twins, Tomislav Ivisic and Zvonimir Ivisic, along with most of the 2025–26 roster.
Assistant coaches also attended, interacting with fans and sharing stories from the Illini’s postseason run.
A centerpiece of the evening was a massive silent auction that stretched across a large portion of the venue, featuring sports memorabilia, exclusive experiences and local contributions. Bidding remained active throughout the night as attendees supported cancer research efforts.
Underwood addressed the crowd, reflecting on the team’s Final Four journey and emphasizing the importance of using that success to make a broader impact. The event is part of the national Coaches vs. Cancer initiative, organized through the National Association of Basketball Coaches.
Proceeds from the evening will support research, prevention and patient services through the American Cancer Society.