Report: Monty Williams wants NBA coaching gig despite interest from Illinois

Teams from all levels of basketball could come knocking on Monty Williams' door.

Fresh off firing head coach John Groce, Illinois hopes to recruit Williams and is willing to make him one of the highest-paid coaches in the NCAA, sources told Adrian Wojnarowski of The Vertical. However, the retired pro isn't expected to accept the gig, as he's looking to return to the sidelines in the NBA.

The 45-year-old served as an associate head coach with the Oklahoma City Thunder last season, but went on a leave of absence after his wife, Ingrid, died in a car crash.

Related: Monty Williams says 'Quitting is not an option' after wife's death

He was on the USA Basketball coaching staff in Rio and has been working in the San Antonio Spurs' front office as the vice president of basketball operations. The former Coach of the Month will reportedly re-join the NBA coaching mix following this campaign.

Williams previously coached the New Orleans Pelicans for five years, leading them to two playoff runs. He also spent time as assistant with the Portland Trail Blazers.