26-27 roster

[Rickster]

the clips I've seen and stuff I've read, it seems Vaaks is similar in size and skillset as Stoya. Can they share minutes?

I know we're still looking for a PG, but it feels like we also still need another big.

[12xu]

Yes I think Vaaks and Stojakovic can be used as very complimentary players. Vaaks with the great 3 pt shooting and Andrej with the creative drives to the basket.

It has been announced that Mirkovic, Davis, and both the Ivisic twins are returning to Illinois, but as you mention, I also think they could use a big man in the paint. Someone who is stronger than the twins, and more athletic than Mirkovic. I have not heard of any big men who the Illini have on their radar.

It would be incredible if Blackwell commits to Illinois, but if he goes elsewhere, I would like the guard who played at VCU, Terrence Hill Jr.. He looked so good in the tournament vs the Illini. He is visiting Tennessee and Kansas this week, so he may not be on Underwood's radar. The Illini do have several freshmen coming in at guard, including 6'4" Quentin Coleman, a four star rated shooting guard from Principia School in St. Louis. They also have 6'6" guard Lucas Morillo coming in, who is also a four star rated player.

So far, it is looking VERY positive for the next season of Illini basketball!

[12xu]

More good news for Illini basketball: Andrej Stojakovic has announced he will return to Illinois for the 2026-27 season, and 6'7" forward Zavier Zens, WIsconsin High School Mr. Basketball for 2026 has committed to play for the Illini. Things are looking real good!

[ChiefSTL]

Sounds like Illinois has moved away from Blackwell. I don't know if it was a money issue, or a compatibility issue. With Stoj, Vaaks and Mirk all being heavy ball usage guys, I could see where it might be tough to keep a guy like Blackwell happy that is looking for more opportunities with the ball in his hands.

I think they want Vaaks in the Wagler role, and it doesn't sound like there are going to be anymore major portal additions at this point. I think they are very high on Coleman and Morillo also, and want to have some opportunity for these guys to play.

From an offensive and length standpoint, I think we're gonna be really good. I do worry about our on ball defense. If somebody spreads us out with a really good PG, who is gonna be the guy that keeps them in front. A guy like Jeremy Fears comes to mind. I wish Lee would've stayed to see if he could've helped us out in that role, but he might not have played over the freshman. I also could've seen adding another big man for depth. Problem is right now everybody is looking for playing time, and we don't have much to offer. When all the smoke clears maybe there will be somebody left.

[12xu]

Sounds like Illinois has moved away from Blackwell. I don't know if it was a money issue, or a compatibility issue. With Stoj, Vaaks and Mirk all being heavy ball usage guys, I could see where it might be tough to keep a guy like Blackwell happy that is looking for more opportunities with the ball in his hands.

Blackwell has committed to Duke, which was not surprising.

[Rickster]

. If somebody spreads us out with a really good PG, who is gonna be the guy that keeps them in front.

was there a good ball handler this year who didn't light us up? Even with Boswell in? I guess the VCU guy in round 2.....

[ChiefSTL]

Sounds like Illinois has moved away from Blackwell. I don't know if it was a money issue, or a compatibility issue. With Stoj, Vaaks and Mirk all being heavy ball usage guys, I could see where it might be tough to keep a guy like Blackwell happy that is looking for more opportunities with the ball in his hands.

Blackwell has committed to Duke, which was not surprising.

No, sounded like it was Duke or Louisville after we pulled out. I don't really understand the fit at Duke. He says he wants the ball in his hands more, but Duke's guards are coming back. It'll be interesting to see how it plays out there, and if everybody stays happy in their roles.

[Basil Shabazz]

Quentin Coleman is going to be very good and I suspect will hold down a key rotation spot from game 1 and on.

[ChiefSTL]

Quentin Coleman is going to be very good and I suspect will hold down a key rotation spot from game 1 and on.

Yeah he just jumped to #13 in the country. He's gonna be a big factor. Assuming Stoj is back, I'm guessing starters are:
Vaaks
Coleman
Stoj
Mirk
Ivisic

Then the top guys off the bench are: Davis, Ivisic, Morillo

I still wouldn't hate getting another rotational guard, but when you can't promise any playing time it's tough to get anybody of quality. Wish Lee would've stayed one more year.

[ChiefSTL]

Was pretty expected, but glad to see Stoj officially pull out of the draft and return to Illinois. No doubt we'll be a preseason top 5 team. We are a really good 7 deep, 8 if Morillo plays like he's expected to. Not much experienced depth after that though. Gonna be a tough schedule as usual. Stay healthy, gel quickly, go get that Natty.

[Rickster]

Was pretty expected, but glad to see Stoj officially pull out of the draft and return to Illinois. No doubt we'll be a preseason top 5 team. We are a really good 7 deep, 8 if Morillo plays like he's expected to. Not much experienced depth after that though. Gonna be a tough schedule as usual. Stay healthy, gel quickly, go get that Natty.

If Coleman can shoot 35-40% from trey, I really like the offensive versatility. If Stoya can get his trey up to 35% we'll be the highest scoring team in the country. I'll be looking to see if we can play D.