Illinois basketball, led by Coach Brad Underwood, enters the 2026-27 season with high expectations following a strong offseason. The team has filled key gaps left by departing players, bringing back talent and adding new faces. However, Underwood faces three significant challenges to push for a national title.

Firstly, finding a new lead player is crucial, as Keaton Waglers emotional anchor and top performance roles are now vacant. David Mirkovic, Tomislav Ivisic, and transfer Stefan Vaaks are potential candidates, with freshman Quentin Coleman also in the mix.

Secondly, Tomislav Ivisics consistency is a concern, as he struggled last season after a promising freshman year. His three-point shooting and overall performance need to improve to create spacing on the court.

Lastly, the teams three-point shooting is a worry, with Wagler and Ben Humrichous now gone. Jake Davis hit forty-point-six percent from beyond the arc, but newcomers like Vaaks and Coleman could fill the void if Underwood utilizes them effectively.

Underwoods team has the potential to succeed, but addressing these issues will determine if they can finally break through and achieve their goals.

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