Illinois basketball ranked highly in Sleeper’s Media early Big Ten Top Five

Illinois basketball famously coined the phrase “#TheRetention” amidst an offseason where it was able to convince its core to return to the team. Despite losing key players like Keaton Wagler, Kylan Boswell, and Ben Humrichous, the Illini were able to keep David Mirkovic, Andrej Stojakovic, Tomislav, Zvonimir Ivisic, and Jake Davis. All five players would have certainly been hot commodities had they entered the transfer portal. However, Illinois has convinced those guys to return and run it back. As a result, they are now heavily favored to repeat last year’s success that led them to the Final Four.

Riley Davis and Carter Elliott of Sleeper’s Media made a video in which they chose their top five teams in the Big Ten. Though there is just under 6 months until the 2026-2027 season, both guys had a clear favorite atop their rankings.

Illinois Basketball.

Riley and Carter both cited the returning pieces as reasons they chose Illinois over the likes of Michigan and Michigan State. In fact, both guys agreed that returning forward David Mirkovic is one of the favorites for Big Ten player of the year behind Michigan State guard Jeremy Fears Jr. (Who is going through the NBA draft process). Mirkovic had a stellar freshman season, averaging 13.3 points and 8.0 rebounds per game. In the 2026 NCAA Tournament, Mirkovic averaged 13.0 points and 9.8 rebounds while shooting an outstanding 40.0% from the three-point line.

David Mirkovic is going to play a feature role next year for the Illinois basketball team. If all returners, including Mirkovic, Stojakovic, and the Ivisic twins, can all take a jump in their game, the Fighting Illini should definitely be the favorites in the Big Ten.

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