"Like many in our industry, I was surprised by yesterday's events," Underwood said in the statement released by the Illinois athletic department. "From our first conversation in March, athletic director Josh Whitman and I have shared a mutual commitment to Illinois men's basketball upholding the highest standards of integrity. I appreciate his ongoing encouragement and support. I stand ready to assist as needed to protect the game of basketball, and those who play it, on our campus and elsewhere."