By Zeno Jo - IlliniGuys Staff Writer

August 4, 2026

(Cover photo courtesy Illinois Athletics)

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Illinois’ star forward David Mirkovic underwent foot surgery in Indianapolis on Tuesday, as shared by the program.

A release stated that he sustained a left foot injury during a team workout on July 31 and is expected to make a full recovery.

The sophomore from Montenegro was a central figure in the team last year, competing in all 37 games and making 36 starts in his freshman campaign, averaging 13.3 points, a team-high 8.0 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. He was also named an All-Big Ten honorable mention and was named to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.

While no timetable for recovery was shared, Mirkovic’s absence in any capacity could spell trouble for Brad Underwood’s squad. The 6-foot-9 forward was set to play a pivotal role this upcoming season on a team that returns six players from its magical Final Four run earlier this year. A hit to cohesion and chemistry could occur as the team enters a crucial stretch of the preseason, but an even bigger concern could be who steps up in his place.

Depth at the power forward position is thin at the moment, with Mirkovic, Tomislav Ivisic, and Zvonimir Ivisic the only returning players standing 6’9” or taller. A ‘Twin Towers’ approach with both Ivisic twins, the 6-foot-6 Jake Davis starting, or highly-touted freshman guard Quentin Coleman starting could all be possible approaches for the staff as it looks to work around Mirkovic’s injury.

With a sophomore season that would have attracted the interest of NBA scouts and award voters alike, Mirkovic may now enter the season either late or short of full fitness.