Illinois Basketball Rebuilds Defense Around Zvonimir Ivisic and Andrej Stojakovic
The Illinois Fighting Illini men’s basketball team is reshaping its defensive identity for the 2026-27 season following a Final Four berth, incorporating a taller and more athletic roster after losing top perimeter defender Kylan Boswell to the Charlotte Hornets on a two-way contract.
Brad Underwood and Camryn Crocker Shape New Defensive Schemes
Head coach Brad Underwood noted that his 2026-27 squad features significantly more size and length than last season’s Final Four roster. “I think we’re more athletic, I think we’re bigger, I think we’re longer,” Underwood said, pointing out that the team’s defensive concepts are shifting toward a more aggressive approach. Defensive coordinator and assistant coach Camryn Crocker emphasized that the core strategy involves containing opponents, protecting the rim, and utilizing the team’s physical attributes with disciplined team defense.
Both coaches stressed that the Illini will maintain their foundational identity of taking away opponent layups and forcing tough jump shots. While acknowledging that replacing Kylan Boswell’s perimeter defense presents a major test, Crocker stated that the team will guard collectively to discover its primary defensive strengths rather than relying on a one-for-one replacement.
Zvonimir Ivisic Anchors Rim Protection Down Low
Fifth-year center Zvonimir Ivisic returns to anchor the interior defense after finishing second in the Big Ten with 1.9 blocks per game and totaling 72 blocks last season. Standing 7 feet and 2 inches tall, Ivisic stated his simple goal for the upcoming season is to “block more shots.” Crocker added that while every player carries a responsibility for rim protection, having Ivisic on the floor simplifies defensive rotations for the entire roster.
Andrej Stojakovic Steps Up on the Perimeter
Senior guard Andrej Stojakovic has emerged as a primary option to bolster the team’s perimeter defense following an offseason of physical development and increased confidence. Stojakovic pointed to his late-season motivation as the blueprint for his expanded role. “Continuing to show that I’m aggressive at the point of attack, pressure on the ball, things that gave me that motivation at the end of the season when things ramped up and we were in that state of ultra-focus,” Stojakovic said.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Illini Defense
Who is replacing Kylan Boswell in the Illinois defensive lineup?
The coaching staff is not utilizing a direct one-for-one replacement for Boswell, who signed a two-way contract with the Charlotte Hornets. Instead, coaches expect senior guard Andrej Stojakovic and the broader roster to defend collectively.
What were Zvonimir Ivisic’s defensive statistics last season?
Zvonimir Ivisic finished second in the Big Ten with 1.9 blocks per game, accumulating 72 total blocks during the season.
What specific defensive goals has head coach Brad Underwood set?
Underwood aims to implement a bigger, longer, and more aggressive defensive scheme that maintains the team’s core identity of stopping layups and forcing difficult shots.
“I’m excited about what this group can become defensively,” Underwood said.