Illinois forward David Mirković underwent left foot surgery Tuesday after suffering an injury in a team workout, the Illini announced.
Illinois did not provide a timeline for Mirković’s return but said in a release that the 6-foot-8 sophomore from Montenegro is “expected to make a full recovery.” Mirković injured himself Friday in Champaign and had the surgery in Indianapolis.
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Mirković is a key returnee and fan favorite from Illinois’ 2026 Final Four team. In his freshman season, he averaged 13.3 points, eight rebounds and 2.6 assists on his way to being named to the all-Big Ten freshman team and an honorable mention all-Big Ten player. His physicality, versatility and intensity were a big asset as the Illini made it to their first Final Four in 21 years.
Illinois had big offseason expectations after retaining Mirković, senior wing Andrej Stojaković, twin senior centers Tomislav and Zvonimir Ivišić and senior forward Jake Davis. Coach Brad Underwood also brought in Providence transfer guard Stefan Vaaks and a highly touted freshman class as they look to overcome the departure of All-American Keaton Wagler to the NBA.
But Mirković’s injury is a blow for the Illini, who had put together a formidable nonconference schedule with games at Texas Tech and Duke and neutral-site games against UConn and North Carolina. He was expected to be a centerpiece of a team that looked like it could compete at the top of the Big Ten, but it is unclear when he might be back to lead the Illini.
Illinois has not released its full schedule yet, but the college basketball season opens in early November.
