Lincoln-Way East brings in former UIC coach Luke Yaklich to lead boys basketball program

Lincoln-Way East announced Friday the hiring of former Illinois-Chicago men’s basketball coach Luke Yaklich as the next boys basketball coach of the Griffins.

In four seasons as head coach at UIC, Yaklich led the Flames to a 47-70 record.

Prior to that, he was a collegiate assistant at Texas, Michigan and Illinois State. That followed a successful run in Illinois high school basketball that included a regional championship at Joliet West after stints at his alma mater La Salle-Peru and Sterling.

“LW East is excited to announce the hiring of Coach Luke Yaklich as our boys basketball coach. ...” Lincoln-Way East posted on X Friday morning. “Welcome to Frankfort to Coach and his wife Amy!”

LW East is excited to announce the hiring of Coach Luke Yaklich as our Boys Basketball Coach. His high school coaching stops include LaSalle-Peru, Sterling, & Joliet West. His college resume includes ISU, Michigan, Texas, & UIC. Welcome to Frankfort to Coach and his wife Amy! pic.twitter.com/iKAzO9qEVb
— LW East Athletics (@LWEastAthletics) April 18, 2025

The Griffins posted an 18-12 record in longtime coach Rich Kolimas’ final season last year. Kolimas went 325-303 with two Class 4A regional titles over his 23 seasons at Lincoln-Way East before retiring at the end of last season.