David Mirkovic receives interesting player comparison from Brad Underwood

David Mirkovic has certainly been an outstanding freshman. Though his classmate, Keaton Wagler, has gained a lot of attention for his stellar play as a true freshman, Mirkovic is also just as important to the success of the Illini. Through 16 games, Mirkovic averages 12.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. 

Underwood draws a comparison

Illinois head coach Brad Underwood was a guest on The Field of 68 After Dark show following their road win over Iowa.

“I compare him a little bit since I played against him when he was at Iowa State – he’s a young Georges Niang”, said Underwood of Mirkovic.

Georges Niang was a second-team All-American at Iowa State in 2016 and a third-team All-American in 2015. He won numerous awards throughout his college career, including the Karl Malone Award, two selections to the All-Big 12 First Team, one All-Big 12 Third Team honor, Big 12 All-Rookie Team recognition, and Big 12 Tournament MVP.

Niang was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 2016 and later earned All-NBA G League First Team honors in 2018.

Untapped potential

“He was a point guard growing up who got big. He has a tremendous pedigree in his family from that side of things, the basketball side. But he is an action guy for us. He creates a lot of mismatches”, Underwood added.

Mirkovic received high praise from his head coach following his 12-rebound performance against Iowa. The outing marked his seventh game this season with double-digit rebounds.

The Montenegrin-born forward has been one of the best freshmen in the country this season, averaging 12.3 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. He continues to show steady growth and figures to improve even more throughout his career as an Illini.

As Underwood noted, Mirkovic creates constant mismatches for opponents at 6-foot-9 with his passing ability, shooting touch, and high basketball IQ. If David Mirkovic returns to Illinois for a sophomore season, look for him to be in contention for one of the best players in the conference.

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