Eariler this week, international guard Mihailo Petrovic was officially cleared by the NCAA and will suit up for Illinois Basketball in 2025-26. Petrovic brings pro experience from Europe, having averaged 14.2 points and 7.3 assists last season overseas. With his eligibility now resolved, Illinois adds a seasoned, mature point guard to its roster. What should Illini fans expect from him to start the season? From the preset to the future. Four-star high-school prospect Lucas Morillo has committed to Illinois as part of the 2026 recruiting class, over several major power schools. Morillo is a huge recruiting win: at 6’6, he's a versatile guard/wing, ranked top 50 in his class, who chose Illinois over UCLA, Texas, Marquette and more. He joins what is becoming a top-tier class with Ethan Brown and Landon Davis.

SUBSCRIBE ON AUDIO: https://linktr.ee/cody_cubs

The hometown guard is back and ready to lead. After transferring home and posting a breakout junior season, Kylan Boswell steps into his senior campaign with high expectations. Let’s dive into what to watch, what he needs to improve, and how his role can expand.Boswell averaged 12.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game last season (2024-25) after starting 34 of 35 games.

The Fighting Illini cruised to a 92‑65 win in their exhibition opener, but it wasn’t just about the score — this game offered a lot of insight into what this team might become in 2025‑26.Coach Brad Underwood’s system appeared to be clicking — or at least being exercised — even without some key players, including Tomislav Ivisic, Andrej Stojakovic, Mhailo Petrovic and Ty Rodgers.Freshman forward David Mirkovic exploded in his Illini debut: 19 points, 14 rebounds, 6 assists. Unreal for a freshman in his first action. Also, transfer big man Zvonimir Ivisic looked legit too — 15 points, 5 boards and showcasing confidence.

Support Cody