Illinois Basketball Center Tomislav Ivisic still awaiting full clearance

Illinois basketball is still awaiting full clearance for their big man. Credit to Illini Inquirer’s Joey Wagner for initially putting this story together, however, Brad Underwood provided a brief update on Ivisic during Big Ten Media Day. Underwood stated that the big man is still “going through the process” and that “we accomplish some things and then we wait some more.” Meaning that the Illini are still awaiting full clearance. The first exhibition vs. Ole Miss is about 24 days away, so that is something to keep an eye on.

Of note, Ivisic’s older brother, Zvonimir, went through a very drawn-out timeline while at Kentucky. Zvonimir did not make his college debut until January 20th. Hopefully, Tomislav is able to be cleared by the NCAA sooner than that, however, it does seem likely that Ivisic may miss a game to start the season.

Next man up for the Illini

Luckily, the Illini are relatively prepared. Though Ivisic would have to play quite a role, Illinois basketball still has some very capable big men. Morez Johnson Jr. and Carey Booth are both athletic big men who can easily slide in at the five spots. Additionally, graduate transfer Ben Humrichous is 6 foot 9 and could play a “small-ball five” for the Illini. Given the number of newcomers, developing chemistry will be key to starting the season. Hopefully, the Illini’s likely starting center is available sooner rather than later.

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