Full Breakdown
Illinois Forward David Mirkovic Skips Montenegro National Team to Focus on Offseason Development
7/3/2026, 4:58:57 PM
Mirkovic Declines National Team Call-up
In early July 2026, Illinois forward David Mirkovic (6-ft-9, freshman of the 2025-26 season) chose to remain in Champaign rather than join the Montenegro senior national team for summer competition. The decision was announced during a press conference with head coach Brad Underwood, who highlighted the player’s desire to continue training on campus.
Offseason Strategy and Strength Emphasis
Illinois’ summer program centers on individualized strength and conditioning under Adam Fletcher, the team’s strength coach. Underwood has used the offseason to address physical development across the roster, noting that incoming transfer Stefan Vaaks is also training with Fletcher while representing Estonia internationally. The approach aims to enhance athleticism, body composition, and durability for the upcoming Big Ten campaign.
Performance Metrics
Mirkovic concluded his freshman year averaging 13.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, shooting 56 % inside the arc and 37.5 % from three-point range. Underwood cited “verticals” and “body weight” adjustments as key targets for his sophomore year. Vaaks, referenced for context, led the Big East in three-pointers made and percentage as a freshman.
Coach Underwood’s Official Rationale
Underwood explained that Mirkovic’s choice reflects an understanding of the benefits provided by the Illinois strength program. He emphasized that the player seeks to “get his body right, be in the best shape, and be the best prepared he can be.” Underwood added that the offseason environment “makes the transition easy” because the athletes are already “playing basketball” together. He also noted that physical improvements—added muscle and refined weight—are expected to translate into higher confidence and on-court performance.
Absence of Dissenting Commentary
The sources contain no public criticism or opposing viewpoints regarding Mirkovic’s decision. No statements from Montenegro’s federation or from Mirkovic himself were provided.
Unresolved Angles
Because Mirkovic did not speak directly to the media in the cited material, his personal motivations remain undocumented. Additionally, the Montenegro program has not issued a comment, leaving the national team’s perspective unrecorded.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think he truly understands the benefits of [strength and conditioning coach Adam Fletcher], and getting his body right, being in the best shape he can be, being the best prepared he can be,” — Brad Underwood, Illinois head coach
- “I think those opportunities are always going to be there with his national team. He’s an outstanding player. I think he understands he’s one of the best players in college basketball. And he wants to capitalize on making the most of that opportunity and felt like that was being here.” — Brad Underwood
- “I think the one thing with Mirk is just physically,” — Brad Underwood
- “Fletch does a great job of improving verticals, getting guys more athletic, getting guys leaned up, more comfortable and dialed in with what body weight should be.” — Brad Underwood
- “We’ve found a body weight that is very comfortable for him. And now it’s just adding muscle, adding strength. And I think you pair that with confidence, you get one of the best players in the country.” — Brad Underwood
Outlook for 2026-27 and Beyond
Underwood projects that the physical gains Mirkovic pursues will position him among “the best players in the country” as a sophomore. Early 2027 mock drafts have listed Mirkovic as high as the No. 11 overall pick, and analysts at CBS Sports College Basketball anticipate a potential preseason All-American selection. The effectiveness of the offseason regimen will be a focal point of Illinois’ performance in the 2026-27 season and could influence Mirkovic’s draft prospects.
