Two of Illinois’ biggest returners are garnering more attention.
David Mirkovic and Andrej Stojakovic were both selected for the preseason All-Big Ten team. Mirkovic and Stojakovic are coming off big seasons, with both averaging over 13 points per game.
Mirkovic was a triple threat last year, finishing top three on the team in points, rebounds and assists. The sophomore broke Kofi Cockburn’s freshman rebound record with 297 boards. His double-double was a big part of Illinois’ win over Houston, putting up 14 points and 10 rebounds.
In his first season as an Illini, Stojakovic had a quieter year than his previous season at Cal. However, he was an important part of the team in March. His ability to get downhill and score at the basket was valuable on a team full of shooters.
The senior’s 17 points against Iowa in the Elite Eight matchup were by far the most off the bench. He had multiple big plays throughout the game to help Illinois stay ahead.
The two Illini join big names like Michigan guard Elliot Cadeau and Michigan State guard Jeremy Fears Jr.