​CHAMPAIGN — In the spring, David Mirkovic planned to return to Montenegro to play for the senior national team. He did get a brief return home to Niksic after Illinois’ season stretched into early April with a Final Four run, but that trip became a singular stop rather than a new routine. After some downtime with his family, Mirkovic decided to stay in Champaign, a change of heart prompted by a candid talk with the Illinois coaching staff and a period of personal reflection about his priorities.
“All my life, I’m going to have the chance to play for my national team,” Mirkovic said late Wednesday at Ubben Basketball Complex, following another summer practice. “But heading into this season and the opportunities we have — not just for me, but for the team — I think it’s much more than just two games with the national team.”
Mirkovic chose to remain in Champaign to prioritize his team and his own development. If he had chosen to play for Montenegro, he would have missed roughly three weeks of Illinois’ schedule. He has spent that time working with strength and conditioning coach Adam Fletcher, alongside the Illinois coaching staff, and integrating into a partially retooled roster featuring six returning players and seven newcomers.
“I think he truly understands the benefits of Fletch and getting his body right,” Illinois coach Brad Underwood said. “Being in the best shape he can be. Being the best prepared he can be. Those opportunities will always be there with his national team.” Underwood also praised Mirkovic’s talent, noting that he’s one of the best players in college basketball and should capitalize on every opportunity, choosing to stay with Illinois rather than chasing two national-team appearances.
Fletcher has already observed the advantages of Mirkovic having a full offseason in the weight room and conditioning program. The 6-foot-9 forward has shed about 20 pounds and is moving more efficiently on the floor, a development that aligns with Illinois’ plans for him this season. The team envisions a larger, more versatile role for Mirkovic, with the ball in his hands more often and a refined face-up game becoming increasingly important. Defensively, his improved conditioning should translate into greater versatility, allowing him to guard multiple positions and extend his reach on the perimeter.
The coaching staff views Mirkovic as a pivotal piece in Illinois’ lineup. A “Point Mirk” role could emerge, featuring more ball handling and decision-making responsibilities, while his improved movement and strength are expected to boost both his offensive and defensive impact. Fletcher emphasized that a movement-based offseason, emphasizing speed work and functional strength, has helped Mirkovic approach his ceiling. The result, according to Fletcher, is an increasingly dynamic player who can pressure the rim from the wing and contribute more consistently across the floor.
As Mirkovic begins his sophomore season in Champaign, he remains focused on helping Illinois maximize its collective potential. He recognizes the personal and team opportunities ahead and has chosen to invest in growth with the Illini, trusting that the best path to his development—and to contributing to the team’s success—starts with staying in Bloomington–Urbana and dedicating himself to his craft. The decision underscores a broader message about prioritizing collective goals and long-term progression over short-term national-team appearances, a stance that could shape Illinois’ trajectory this season as they seek to build depth, cohesion, and sustained success.