Illinois basketball center Tomislav Ivisic sets NCAA Tournament record

Illinois basketball center Tomislav Ivisic set an NCAA tournament record for the most three-pointers made by a 7-foot player. The Croatian big man sank four threes in Friday night’s 86-73 win over the Xavier Musketeers and was a key factor in the Illini’s first-round victory. Ultimately, Ivisic put up 20 points and 10 rebounds and was crucial in shutting down Xavier star forward, Zach Freemantle. Freemantle typically averages over 17 points per game vs the Musketeers, however, Ivisic and true freshman, Morez Johnson Jr., successfully held Freemantle to five points.

Firing on all cylinders

It is abundantly clear that when Ivisic has a good game, the Illini are bound for a victory. He is such a key piece to their offense because of his scoring and passing ability. For a team that wants space in the paint, Ivisic’s ability to shoot the ball and pass the ball opens up the entire offense. Since the Duke game, Ivisic has been shooting an impressive 39.3 percent from behind the arc. Though he may take too many perimeter shots in some instances, knocking these down early is an emphasis for Brad Underwood and his team.

In this next game vs Kentucky, Illinois basketball plays the Kentucky Wildcats. The Wildcats have two impressive frontcourt pieces in Amari Williams and Andrew Carr. Ivisic needs to have another strong performance and needs to stay out of foul trouble if the Illini want to advance to their second straight Sweet 16.

Happy Saturday to everyone especially Tomislav Ivisic and Will Riley pic.twitter.com/7sD1okuCIH

— Armchair Illinois (@ArmchairIllini) March 22, 2025

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