Illinois basketball news: Tomislav Ivisic OUT vs Maryland; Riley, White Questionable

In another twist of bad luck, Illinois basketball announced that starting center Tomislav Ivisic will be out of tonight’s game vs the Maryland Terrapins. Ivisic played Sunday’s game vs Michigan State battling strep throat. Though there is no official reason for Ivisic being out, it is likely that. Additionally, forwards Tre White and Will Riley are also named questionable for the game tonight with illness. Flu season has hit the Illini hard and with the ice cold weather recently, there is no surprise that a bug has hit the Illini.  In basketball terms, Ivisic’s absence is a huge blow.

Illinois basketball is looking to get back on track after a tough loss to the Michigan State Spartans with a home win. Maryland comes in with an extremely talented frontcourt, including Derik Queen and Julian Reese. That only means that true freshman, Morez Johnson Jr. will have to step up and play his best.

Who else could play a role?

No doubt about it, Carey Booth will play a huge role in tonight’s game. Johnson Jr. absolutely cannot get into foul trouble as the Illini lack big bodies on the bench. If Riley and White are limited, Carey Booth becomes an even more important factor. Hopefully, the Notre Dame transfer is ready for action as he has only played 6 minutes total in the month of January.

Perhaps Brad Underwood will play Ben Humrichous at the five in an attempt to bring Derik Queen and Angel Reese away from the basket? Whatever happens, the Illini will need their star players to step up in a major way.

Huge blow for the Illini tonight.. Tomislav Ivisic, who was battling strep throat on Sunday at MSU, is OUT tonight vs. Maryland.

Will Riley & Tre White are questionable. pic.twitter.com/SGF4CKpb91

— Derek Piper (@DPiper247) January 23, 2025

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