Illinois Basketball needs to make this their top priority in the 2025 Offseason

After a disappointing loss in the Round of 32 vs the Kentucky Wildcats, it became abundantly clear. Illinois basketball has to get older and tougher. Of course, we all jump immediately into the transfer portal and how Brad Underwood can immediately upgrade his roster. However, a top priority should be a notion that has become somewhat outdated: Roster Retention. In fact, if there is one player that may even be considered irreplaceable, there is no one other than their starting Center. This player should be the top priority heading into the 2025 offseason.

Locking down Tomislav Ivisic.

In the 7 games after the Duke loss, Tomislav Ivisic averaged 15 ppg, 6.4 RPG, and 3.3 apg. He also shot an outstanding 40 percent from the three-point line and became irreplaceable in the Illini lineup. Ivisic played heavy minutes despite missing time with Mononucleosis and an injured ankle. Heading into year two, there will certainly be a lot more comfort and confidence on both sides of the ball. If he can improve his conditioning even further, Ivisic has the opportunity to be the best center in the Big Ten.

For example, Kofi Cockburn made an impact during his freshman year with Illinois basketball. However, he improved each offseason and became a player that garnered attention on a national level in his sophomore and junior season. Tomislav Ivisic has the opportunity to do that in Champaign.

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