Illinois forward David Mirkovic, one of the best true freshmen in men's college basketball last season, is out indefinitely after undergoing surgery on his left foot, the program announced Tuesday, Aug. 4.
The injury occurred during a team practice on July 31, and Mirkovic is expected to make a full recovery, according to the announcement.
Mirkovic's injury is a significant blow to the Fighting Illini, who return star guard Andrej Stojakovic and standout center Tomislav Ivisic, while adding highly sought-after guard Stefan Vaaks from Providence in the transfer portal.
Illinois didn't release a timetable for Mirkovic's return, leaving his status uncertain for the upcoming season.
Mirkovic averaged 13.3 points with eight rebounds and 2.6 assists per game last season, and was expected to take on an even bigger role in 2026-27 following leading scorer Keaton Wagler's departure to the NBA.
The Niksic, Montenegro, native helped lead Illinois to the Final Four last season, scoring a career-high 29 points in Illinois' first-round NCAA Tournament win over Penn. He also scored 14 points with 10 rebounds in the Fighting Illini's Sweet 16 win over Houston.
Illinois don't have an obvious forward replacement for Mirkovic, but could potentially move to a double-big lineup with Zvonomir Ivisic, Tomislav Ivisic's brother.
Mirkovic's stats from the 2025-26 season are impressive, with 13.3 points, 8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game on 48.4% shooting (37.5% from 3-point range).
The Fighting Illini will have to adjust their lineup and strategy without Mirkovic, but the team remains confident in their ability to compete at a high level.
Source: Yahoo Sports