Illinois State University Athletics has announced its two head basketball coaches have received one-year contract extensions, following long postseason runs during the 2025-26 campaign.
Men’s head coach Ryan Pedon and women’s coach Kristen Gillespie are now under contract through the 2030-31 season.
"Kristen and Ryan continue to make a tremendous impact on Illinois State University, Redbird Athletics and our basketball programs," ISU Athletics Director Jeri Beggs said in a statement. “These two have led our basketball programs to success on and off the court, and I look forward to having them represent our department and the university for years to come."
Pedon led ISU to the NIT semifinals and a 23-13 record. He’s only the second coach in program history to improve the team’s season win total in each of his first four seasons. Kevin Stallings in the other.
Pedon has posted a 71-65 record in four seasons at ISU.
“My family and I are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to coach at Illinois State University,” Pedon said in a statement. “We love being a part of the Bloomington-Normal community and we are driven by our strong desire to bring a championship home to Illinois State.
Gillespie guided ISU to the WNIT championship game last April and has won 20 or more games four consecutive seasons.
In nine seasons, Gillespie has amassed a 181-109 record and ranks among the 10 winningest coaches in Missouri Valley Conference women’s history.
“This contract extension reflects the commitment of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and everyone who has had a hand in our success. We still have so much more to accomplish, and I’m excited about what lies ahead,” she said.
