It was just an exhibition game, but the Illinois basketball team showed some encouraging signs on Sunday.
The Illini hosted backyard rivals Illinois State in the lone exhibition game of the season. This is a nice tune-up to see where the team is at, what each player looks like, and to see who can step up this season.
I liked what I saw from most of the team. There were some big-time contributors that I didn’t expect to look that good. Overall, I was happy with what I saw on Sunday, as we cruised to a 92-65 win over Illinois State.
Here are five interesting observations from the Illinois basketball win over Illinois State
1. David Mirkovic is the real deal
There was a lot to love about the exhibition game against Illinois State, but the biggest takeaway from the contest was how good David Mirkovic was on the court.
Illinois snagged some good talent this offseason. We are still waiting on Mihailo Petrovic’s eligibility ruling and for him to get healthy. The health thing has been hampering Andrej Stojakovic as well.
Missing both of these players, along with Tomislav Ivisic, has given some of the new talent the green light to show us what they have. On Sunday, Mirkovic took that opportunity and ran with it.
I didn’t realize this kid was the complete package. His back-to-the-basket ability is through the roof, but he also has backcourt instincts. The way Mirkovic handles the basketball and the offense is incredible. The style in which he plays reminds me a lot of Nikola Jokic. He gives me those vibes.
It is obviously an exhibition game. You can’t get too excited about beating up on Illinois State. With that being said, Mirkovic’s 19 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists were impressive. He has a confidence in his game that is way beyond his years. Illinois found a special player in Mirkovic.