“We are excited to officially welcome Bernard Kouma to the Fighting Illini family,” coach Brad Underwood said in a statement. “Bernard is a hard worker who has really improved during his years in the U.S. He is a skilled big who is a terrific rebounder, can use either hand around the basket, passes it well and has become a physical presence as his body has developed. He will strengthen our frontcourt with his ability to impact the game at both ends of the court.”