McLean County Times

In a recent development within the Illinois State University sports community, Ryan Pedon, the head coach of the men's basketball team, has secured a contract extension through the 2029-30 season. Following notable progress, including a College Basketball Invitational Title in 2025 and the most wins since 2017 with a 22-14 record for the 2024-25 season, Pedon's leadership has been recognized through this extended commitment.

Coach Pedon expressed his gratitude by stating: "I am grateful for this opportunity to continue leading the Redbird Men's Basketball program into the future." He acknowledged the support received from "Dr. Jeri Beggs, President Tarhule, and our Board of Trustees" for their backing.

Pedon, who took charge in the 2022-23 season, has overseen a consistent rise in the team's performance, achieving back-to-back seasons of four-plus game win improvements. This feat marks only the second occurrence in the program's history for consecutive seasons with such improvement. Reflecting on his role, Pedon stated, "Being the head coach at Illinois State means the world to my family and I."

The 2024-25 season saw the team finish 24th nationally in three-point field goal percentage and seventh in effective field goal percentage, setting program records. Pedon highlighted the team-building approach saying, "we have emphasized the importance of building a championship-caliber program with the right PEOPLE."

Under his guidance, the team also made academic strides, achieving record semester grade point averages for five consecutive semesters and setting a team GPA record of 3.54. Athletically, ISU saw significant contributions from players like Chase Walker and Johnny Kinziger, who were recognized as All-MVC honorees.

Ryan Pedon's background includes roles as an assistant coach at Ohio State, Butler, Illinois, Toledo, and Miami (Ohio), with a history of leading teams to NCAA Tournament appearances. This experience shapes his leadership style and aspirations for the Redbirds.

Dr. Jeri Beggs, Illinois State Director of Athletics, expressed enthusiasm for the contract extension, stating, "We're thrilled to extend Ryan's contract, ensuring continued leadership and success for our men's basketball program."

Pedon's journey in coaching began after playing college basketball at the College of Wooster, from where he graduated with a degree in communications, followed by a master's in sport organization from Miami (Ohio).

ISU looks forward to what the future holds with Coach Pedon steering the program in Bloomington/Normal towards further success.