The hype train keeps on chugging.
David Mirkovic was recently ranked as the best power forward in the nation by Kevin Sweeney of Sports Illustrated. The sophomore beat out players like JT Toppin and Alex Condon for the number one spot.
In the article, Sweeney says Mirkovic has a unique skill set on offense. He says there’s a lot of buzz that Mirkovic made a big jump in the offseason.
Mirkovic is coming off a huge freshman season where he averaged 13.3 points and 8 rebounds while shooting over 48% from the floor and 37.5% from beyond the arc. He was an All-Big Ten honorable mention and a Big Ten All-Freshman Team selection.
He can also be a facilitator, something Illinois will likely utilize more this season with Keaton Wagler moving on to the next level.
However, Mirkovic suffered an injury to his left foot in late July. He had to undergo surgery, which left him in a boot. While there was no timetable given for his return, reports said the recovery time could take upwards of two months.
That would mean Mirkovic could return before the season begins. Whether the unspecified injury will have any lasting effects remains to be seen. No matter what, Mirkovic has some serious hype surrounding him as his sophomore season nears.