Latest Basketball News
Illinois Twin Towers Tomislav and Zvonimir Ivisic Announce Return for 2026-27 Season
The 7-foot twin brothers Tomislav and Zvonimir Ivisic declared their return to the Illinois Fighting Illini at the Kickin' Cancer fundraiser on April 16, 2026. This bolsters the team's size, frontcourt depth, and experienced core following their 2026 Final Four appearance. Their decision ends speculation after the Illini's outstanding postseason run.
Jake Davis Commits to Return to Illinois Basketball Alongside Ivisic Twins
Wing Jake Davis announced at the same April 16 fundraiser that he will rejoin the Illini for 2026-27, pairing with the returning Ivisic brothers. This preserves the team's Balkan flavor and shooting bigs that defined their historic 2025-26 success.
Coach Brad Underwood's core now looks set for another strong campaign.
David Mirkovic Also Returns to Illinois, Strengthening Post-Final Four Roster
David Mirkovic confirmed his return earlier on April 16, 2026, adding to the Illini's frontcourt depth. With the Ivisics and Davis back, only Andrej Stojakovic's decision remains among eligible core players.
The moves position Illinois for a quick return to Final Four contention.
Illini Preserve Historic Size and Balkan Core for Upcoming Season
Illinois men's basketball retains its key attributes—size, sweet-shooting bigs, and Balkan talent—with the Ivisic twins' return announcement. The team chugged Bud Light in celebration at the Gordyville USA event.
Fans celebrate 'The Original Balkan is back' on social media.
Stephen A. Smith and Cam Newton Discuss Sports Including Basketball on Get Up Live
ESPN's Get Up Live on April 16, 2026, featured Stephen A. Smith and Cam Newton covering today's top sports stories, likely including NBA playoffs and college basketball news. The live show drew over 1,500 viewers discussing current events.
Topics encompassed broad sports updates relevant to basketball fans.
Illinois Ivisic Twins React Joyfully After Return Announcement at Fundraiser
Tomislav Ivisic celebrated his return by chugging a fan-supplied Bud Light at the Kickin' Cancer event. Zvonimir and Jake Davis followed with their own announcements, sparking Illini hype.
Photos from the event capture the excitement post-Final Four.
Boise State Basketball Portal Updates Highlighted in Local Sports Broadcast
BNN Live on April 16, 2026, previewed Boise State basketball transfer portal moves alongside football news. Hosts B.J. Rains and Johnny 'Ballgame' Mallory analyzed implications for the Broncos' roster.
The segment underscores ongoing college basketball offseason activity.
Illinois Eyes Quick Path to Second Straight Final Four with Returning Stars
With core players like the Ivisics, Davis, and Mirkovic back, coach Underwood shortens the wait for another deep NCAA run. Keaton Wagler enters NBA Draft, but eligibility remains for others.
The 2026-27 Illini roster gains massive frontcourt presence.
Illini Men's Basketball Social Media Erupts Over Twin Towers' Return
Official Illinois account posted 'The Original Balkan is back' after the April 16 announcements. Fans and reporters shared videos of celebrations at Gordyville USA.
The news solidifies Champaign's big-man dominance for next season.
ESPN First Take Live Covers April 16 Sports Slate with Basketball Focus
FIRST TAKE on ESPN HD aired live on April 16, 2026, with Stephen A. Smith leading discussions on pressing basketball topics amid playoffs. Guests like Cam Newton joined for in-depth analysis.
The broadcast reflects daily NBA and college hoops buzz.