John Groce Reportedly Set to Become University of Illinois Basketball Head Coach

John Groce is reportedly about to be named the next coach of the Illinois men's basketball team.

If the report is correct, the 40-year-old will be leaving Ohio to take this job. 

CBS Sports senior basketball writer Jeff Goodman tweeted the news:

"

John Groce to Illinois is a done deal, source told CBSSports. News Conference likely tomorrow.

— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanCBS) March 29, 2012"

Groce took over as coach of Ohio in 2008; it was his first head-coaching job.

Ohio was 15-17 in his first season, but the Bobcats were over .500 in his remaining three seasons.

His career mark is 85-56, and Ohio made the NCAA tournament twice in his time there. 

Groce became a legitimate contender for top jobs after leading Ohio to a 29-8 record and a trip to the Sweet 16 this season. 

He obviously had a good thing going in Ohio, but he is due to make a hefty raise. 

Herb Gould of the Chicago Sun-Times reported, "...look for Groce to land in the $1.5 million-to-$2 million range."

That is a considerable raise over what he was set to make at Ohio. The Chicago Tribune's Shannon Ryan shares the info on Groce's contract at Ohio: 

"

Groce makes about $300,000 per season and it has been reported the most Ohio can offer is $500,000 annually.

"

Gould reported that a press conference to announce this move is expected on Thursday.