Illini Forward Toni Bilic Enters Transfer Portal

Bilic joined Illinois midseason but did not see any playing time.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:49pm

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A cubist-style painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of orange, blue, and grey, conceptually representing the fractured nature of a college basketball player's transfer from one program to another.A fragmented, abstract illustration captures the uncertainty surrounding a college basketball player's transfer decision.Champaign Today

Toni Bilic, a sophomore forward for the University of Illinois men's basketball team, has entered the transfer portal after just one semester with the program. Bilic joined the Illini midseason but did not play in any games, instead focusing on strength training and development for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.

Why it matters

Bilic's departure is the second transfer from the Illinois basketball team this offseason, following point guard Mihailo Petrovic. These roster changes could signal a shift in the Illini's plans as they look to rebuild and improve the team's performance for the upcoming season.

The details

Bilic, a 21-year-old sophomore, joined the Fighting Illini through a signed Big Ten Athletics Aid Agreement in December 2025. Prior to coming to the United States, he played three seasons of professional basketball in Croatia. However, after arriving at Illinois, Bilic did not see any on-court action, as the school announced he would be focusing on strength training and development for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.

  • Bilic joined the Illinois basketball team in December 2025.
  • Bilic entered the transfer portal on April 11, 2026.

The players

Toni Bilic

A 21-year-old sophomore forward who joined the University of Illinois men's basketball team midseason but did not play in any games.

Mihailo Petrovic

A point guard who is also expected to enter the transfer portal, following Bilic's departure from the Illinois basketball program.

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What they’re saying

“Toni Bilic has entered the transfer portal, per source. Joined the Illini midseason but didn't play in any games. Played three seasons of pro ball in Croatia before coming to the United States.”

— Jeff Borzello, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The University of Illinois will need to fill the roster spot left by Bilic's departure, either through recruiting new players or promoting existing members of the team.

The takeaway

The transfer of Toni Bilic, coupled with the expected departure of Mihailo Petrovic, suggests that the Illinois basketball program is undergoing a period of transition and rebuilding as they look to improve their performance for the upcoming season.