The season is nearly underway, but we still have questions about the Illini. Here are two thoughts on the team ahead of Monday's opener.
Only one sleep stands between Illinois fans and their program’s season opener. Jackson State awaits Illinois on Monday – and, in the meantime, we’ll offer two thoughts for this Illini squad.Mar 21, 2025; Milwaukee, WI, USA: Illinois Fighting Illini forward Ben Humrichous shoots a three point basket against the Xavier Musketeers during the first half at Fiserv Forum.
Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images / Jeff Hanisch-Imagn ImagesThe Illini have three options at the power forward position, and they can’t go wrong with any of them.Between Mirkovic’s head-turning exhibition and Ivisic’s own performance , it will be interesting to see what route coach Brad Underwood decides to take as the season progresses. For now, it seems as though Humrichous is still locked into the starting role, but Mirkovic or Ivisic will play a ton and could steal that spot at any point.Regardless of the choice, Illinois’ offense won’t suffer – but the defense may. Ivisic is a phenomenal rim-protector – and would pair well with his twin brother, Tomislav, on the interior – but he can’t consistently guard on the perimeter. Mirkovic is a touch more agile, but even he won’t be able to guard athletic fours. The Illini may be forced to ride with Humrichous – who, out of the trio, is the best-equipped to guard perimeter players. But even Humrichous isn’t exactly a stalwart in terms of staying in front of a shifty opponent. Unfortunately, it appears as though any driving-oriented forward or small-ball lineup could pose certain problems for this Illinois defense. DIG DEEPER. Illinois' 2025-26 projected lineup and rotation. Illinois' 2025-26 projected lineup and rotation. darkThe freshman guard has been praised ad nauseum by teammates and coaches alike, and despite a so-so performance in the exhibition showing, he is expected to be a huge piece for Illinois. WithWagler and Lee’s ability to produce from Day 1 can be the difference between an extremely deep and balanced Illinois roster and a squad completely lacking backcourt depth.Primarily covers Illinois football and basketball, and Kansas basketball, with an emphasis on analysis, features and recruiting. Langendorf, a third-generation University of Illinois alum, has been watching Illini basketball and football for as long as he can remember. An advertising student and journalism devotee, he has been writing for On SI since October 2024. He can be followed and reached on X @jglangendorf.
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