Illini Freshman Mirkovic Shines in Boswell's Absence

Illinois plans to continue using Mirkovic as a secondary facilitator down the stretch of the season.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 9:23pm

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David Mirkovic, a 6-foot-9 freshman forward for the University of Illinois basketball team, has exceeded expectations as a primary ball handler and facilitator, especially during the seven games the Illini played without star freshman guard Kylan Boswell due to injury. Illinois head coach Brad Underwood plans to continue utilizing Mirkovic in this secondary facilitator role alongside fellow freshman star Keaton Wagler for the remainder of the regular season and into the postseason.

Why it matters

Mirkovic's ability to step up and run the offense in Boswell's absence has given Illinois another dynamic playmaker and facilitator, which will be crucial for the team's success down the stretch as they aim to make a deep postseason run. Mirkovic's versatility and high basketball IQ have allowed the Illini to adapt their offense seamlessly when key players are out.

The details

Underwood was impressed with Mirkovic's game even during the recruiting process, knowing the Illini were adding a physical 6-foot-9 playmaker who could both facilitate the offense and contribute in the post. Mirkovic has exceeded Underwood's expectations, particularly as a primary ball handler and facilitator when Boswell missed seven games due to a hand injury. This thrust Mirkovic into a more prominent role alongside fellow freshman star Keaton Wagler, and Illinois plans to continue utilizing Mirkovic in this secondary facilitator position for the remainder of the season.

  • Mirkovic has been a key contributor for Illinois all season.
  • Boswell missed seven games due to a hand injury.
  • Illinois (21-5, 12-3 Big Ten) is currently ranked #10 in the nation.

The players

David Mirkovic

A 6-foot-9 freshman forward for the University of Illinois basketball team who has emerged as a dynamic playmaker and facilitator, especially in the absence of fellow freshman star Kylan Boswell.

Kylan Boswell

A freshman guard for the University of Illinois who missed seven games due to a hand injury.

Brad Underwood

The head coach of the University of Illinois basketball team, who was impressed with Mirkovic's game even during the recruiting process.

Keaton Wagler

A fellow freshman star for the University of Illinois who has played alongside Mirkovic in the Illini's offense.

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What they’re saying

“He has shown no signs of being a freshman from any of that stuff.”

— Brad Underwood, Head Coach, University of Illinois

“He knows no one can guard him.”

— Brad Underwood, Head Coach, University of Illinois

What’s next

Illinois (21-5, 12-3 Big Ten) plans to continue utilizing Mirkovic in a secondary facilitator role alongside Keaton Wagler for the remainder of the regular season and into the postseason as they aim to make a deep tournament run.

The takeaway

Mirkovic's emergence as a dynamic playmaker and facilitator, especially in Boswell's absence, has given Illinois another versatile weapon in their offense. The Illini's ability to adapt and thrive with different lineup configurations speaks to the team's depth and coaching staff's adaptability, which will be crucial for their postseason aspirations.