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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Illinois basketball enthusiasts received exciting news regarding the return of three pivotal players, contributing to the anticipation of the 2026 Final Four journey.
The team announced through social media that Jake Davis, along with brothers Zvonimir and Tomislav Ivisic, will be returning to bolster the Illinois lineup for the 2026-27 season.
Tomislav Ivisic, who completed his second season with the team in 2025-26, posted impressive averages of 10.4 points and 5.6 rebounds. Initially starting his collegiate career as a sophomore, the Croatian center benefited from the NCAA’s decision due to his prior international playing experience.
Zvonimir Ivisic, having transferred from Kentucky and Arkansas under the guidance of John Calipari, marked his third collegiate season in Champaign. During the 2025-26 season, he contributed 6.4 points and 4.5 rebounds per game, with a shooting percentage of 28% from beyond the arc.
Jake Davis also wrapped up his second season in Champaign in 2025-26 after transferring from Mercer, where he spent his freshman year honing his skills and setting the stage for his role with the Illini.
The McCordsville, Indiana native moved into the starting lineup mid-year for the Illini as a junior, and averaged 5.4 points per game. He shot 40.6% from three-point land in 2025-26, up from 34.4% in his first year with the Illini.
Earlier on Wednesday, David Mirkovic announced his return to Illinois.
Illinois graduated AJ Redd, Kylan Boswell and Ben Humrichous.
Underwood’s staff has four commits coming in from the high school class of 2026: Lucas Morillo, Ethan Brown, Landon Davis and Quentin Coleman.
Stefan Vaaks has committed to Illinois out of the transfer portal after one season at Providence.