No. 4 Forward
- Starter: David Mirkovic (SO)
This is massive hyperbole, but after that exhibition game against Illinois State, I am not sure David Mirkovic is going to make it past his freshman season at Illinois. He wowed me in that exhibition game with his basketball IQ and ability.
I have Mirkovic starting at the No. 4 spot for the Illini. Honestly, he could play the No. 1 through No. 4 spots; that is how talented he is. His game is styled after Nikola Jokic, and it is so fun to watch. He has a chance to be a mega star in the college game and potentially a top 10 pick in the NBA Draft in the future.
- Backup: Ty Rodgers (SR)
If I had a crystal ball, I would venture to say Ty Rodgers doesn’t make it to the 2026-27 season as a member of the Illinois basketball program. That is complete speculation. But if he does, I have him as the primary backup at the No. 4 spot. He is dealing with a bad injury right now, and who knows what Rodgers looks like when he returns. I love his rebounding ability and grit. He would be perfect off the bench at the No. 4 spot.
- Backup: Landon Davis (FR)
Illinois was able to land a couple of nice depth pieces. Landon Davis should fit into that mold. He has a lot of talent, but in 2026-27, I don’t think Illinois will need him that much. A redshirt would be smart, and then the Illini could unleash him in 2027-28.