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Champaign Today
By the People, for the People
Illinois Freshman Mirkovic Sets New Standard After Owning Mistake
Mirkovic's self-reflection and accountability after a loss inspired his coach and teammates.
Published on Feb. 16, 2026
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Illinois freshman forward David Mirkovic took responsibility for his poor performance in a recent loss to Wisconsin, sending his coach Brad Underwood an apologetic text shortly after the game. Underwood was impressed by Mirkovic's willingness to hold himself accountable, and it showed in Mirkovic's dominant 25-point, 7-rebound, 3-assist effort in Illinois' 71-51 win over Indiana on Sunday. Underwood praised Mirkovic's self-reflection and commitment to improving, noting that the young player's accountability set a strong example for the rest of the team.
Why it matters
Mirkovic's actions demonstrate the value of holding oneself to a high standard, even as a young player. By taking responsibility for his mistakes, Mirkovic showed maturity beyond his years and inspired his teammates and coaches. This type of self-accountability can be a powerful tool for developing players and building a winning team culture.
The details
After a subpar performance against Wisconsin in which he scored 12 points but shot just 3-for-6 from the free-throw line and committed 4 turnovers, Mirkovic took it upon himself to reflect on his play and vowed to improve. He sent Underwood a text shortly after the game taking the blame for the loss. Underwood was impressed by Mirkovic's willingness to hold himself accountable, and it showed in Mirkovic's dominant effort against Indiana, where he scored 25 points on 10-of-16 shooting, grabbed 7 rebounds, and dished out 3 assists without a single turnover. Mirkovic also played lockdown defense, holding Indiana's veteran forward Tucker DeVries to just 13 points on 5-of-12 shooting.
- On February 4, 2026, Mirkovic had a subpar performance against Wisconsin.
- Shortly after the Wisconsin game, Mirkovic sent Underwood a text taking responsibility for the loss.
- On February 15, 2026, Mirkovic delivered a dominant 25-point, 7-rebound, 3-assist performance in Illinois' 71-51 win over Indiana.
The players
David Mirkovic
A freshman forward for the Illinois Fighting Illini basketball team who has emerged as an impact player, demonstrating both offensive skill and defensive intensity.
Brad Underwood
The head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini basketball team, who has been working to push Mirkovic to reach his full potential.
Tucker DeVries
A veteran forward for the Indiana Hoosiers who was held in check by Mirkovic's strong defensive effort.
What they’re saying
“'Mirk was spectacular,' Underwood said after his first-year forward went off for 25 points on 10-for-16 shooting in Illinois' 71-51 win over Indiana on Sunday.”
— Brad Underwood, Head Coach, Illinois Fighting Illini (si.com)
“'He practiced at a different level, and that showed off today. He was dominant on both ends, and it's as focused defensively as I've seen him. He had Tucker [DeVries], a veteran guy who has been around and been a part of a lot of basketball games. So I'm very, very proud of him.'”
— Brad Underwood, Head Coach, Illinois Fighting Illini (si.com)
“'He is the ultimate competitive winner, and it was just his way of, I think, helping himself become more motivated. Maybe my words weren't getting through to him, but some self-reflection – any 18- or 19-year-old who can self-reflect, that's pretty special. And then most of them blame and have excuses. Mirk doesn't. And I'm so impressed.'”
— Brad Underwood, Head Coach, Illinois Fighting Illini (si.com)
What’s next
The Illinois coaching staff will look to build on Mirkovic's strong performance and leadership example, continuing to challenge him to maintain a high level of play and accountability.
The takeaway
Mirkovic's willingness to take responsibility for his mistakes and then respond with an outstanding effort demonstrates the power of self-reflection and accountability, even for young athletes. His actions set a positive example for his teammates and show the value of pushing oneself to be better, rather than making excuses.
