When will Illinois reveal the identity of its next volleyball coach? UI sports information director Kent Brown said Tuesday afternoon to expect an announcement "in the next couple of days."

The final day to apply for the position was Dec. 31, according to Brown. If a successor to Don Hardin, who retired after the 2008 season, has been selected by now, that choice still would need to be be submitted to the university's affirmative action department for approval. That process -- as well as down time during the New Year's holiday -- could account for the fact an announcement has yet to be made, Brown said.

All signs continue to point to the selection of Hardin's top assistant, Kevin Hambly.