Illini WBB Great Kendall Bostic Embraces New Role in Illinois Athletics
Kendall Bostic didn’t originally plan to work in college athletics. But after an impressive four-year basketball career at Illinois — during which she became the program’s all-time leading rebounder — she’s now taking on a new role as Assistant Director of Development, Varsity I.
Bostic never pursued the WNBA and ultimately decided not to play professionally overseas. Though she considered a career in special education, a conversation with Athletic Director Josh Whitman opened a different door. While seeking references during her job search, Bostic reached out to both Whitman and head coach Shauna Green. Whitman invited her to his office, and soon after, she began the application process for a position in the athletics department. Following a series of interviews, she accepted her first job outside of basketball — a professional position that still keeps her close to the sport and university she loves.
“It keeps me around basketball and sports in general,” Bostic said. “I knew my playing days were over. My body couldn’t take it anymore. This felt like a natural transition — staying in an environment I care about and helping others.”
In her new role, Bostic leads initiatives focused on alumni engagement. She works with former student-athletes to organize reunions and events, supports their networking efforts, and serves as a main contact for alumni returning to campus. She refers to the position as “student-athlete alumni relations.”
Reaching this point meant accepting that her playing career had ended. Basketball had defined much of her identity for the past decade, and stepping away wasn’t easy. But Bostic knew it was the right move. She’s proud of her legacy, which includes leading the Big Ten in rebounds per game for four consecutive years, earning All-Big Ten honors four times, and recording 54 double-doubles — the most in program history.
Initially set on a teaching career, Bostic also realized that her desire to help others could take different forms. She still runs basketball camps and finds ways to support young athletes and children outside the classroom.
“There are so many ways I can help kids and give back,” she said. “This opportunity wasn’t on my radar at all, but when it came up, I knew I couldn’t pass it up.”
Although she occasionally stops by the Ubben Practice Facility, Bostic has moved on to the next phase of her life. She’s focused on building a stable future — thinking about benefits, health insurance, and life beyond basketball. While she admits she’ll miss being on the court when the season starts, she feels content with where she’s landed.
Reflecting on her time at Illinois, Bostic credits the support she received from the athletics department while completing her master’s program. That experience inspired her to give back and help current athletes have the same opportunities.
“Everyone supported me through my journey here,” she said. “Now it’s my turn to give back and help others have the same kind of experience. That’s something I just have to do.”
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