The Fighting Illini cruised to a 92‑65 win in their exhibition opener, but it wasn’t just about the score — this game offered a lot of insight into what this team might become in 2025‑26.Coach Brad Underwood’s system appeared to be clicking — or at least being exercised — even without some key players, including Tomislav Ivisic, Andrej Stojakovic, Mhailo Petrovic and Ty Rodgers.Freshman forward David Mirkovic exploded in his Illini debut: 19 points, 14 rebounds, 6 assists. Unreal for a freshman in his first action. Also, transfer big man Zvonimir Ivisic looked legit too — 15 points, 5 boards and showcasing confidence.
