Ohio's John Groce still appears to be the choice to take over at Illinois but the school says no deal has been reached.

News reports circulated Tuesday that a press conference was scheduled and Groce all but hired. But university spokesman Kent Brown said nothing had been finalized.

Illinois has been looking for a men's basketball coach since Bruce Weber was fired March 9. Virginia Commonwealth's Shaka Smart and Butler's Brad Stevens deflected interest from Illinois.

Someone familiar with the search said Sunday that Illinois was targeting Groce. Groce was an assistant under Thad Matta at Ohio State. In his time their Groce was instrumental in bringing Greg Oden and Mike Conley Jr. to the program.

The 40-year-old Groce has led Ohio University to two NCAA Tournament appearances in four seasons, including the Sweet 16 this year.  His record is 85-and-56 at Ohio U.

Former Illinois player and ESPN analyst Stephen Bardo said turmoil at the university makes hiring a challenge.

President Michael Hogan resigned under pressure. Two trustees have said they'd like to see a black coach.