Tomislav Ivisic to Return to Illinois for 2025-26 Season
Illinois center Tomislav Ivisic has announced that he will return to the team for the 2025-26 season. This decision comes shortly after his twin brother, Zvonimir, revealed he would be transferring from Arkansas.
Ivisic, who was a key player for Illinois last season, averaged 13.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. He also contributed as a floor-spreader by making 35.7% of his three-point attempts. Ivisic played in 32 games, starting 31, despite dealing with illness throughout the season.
His return is significant for Illinois head coach Brad Underwood, as it brings back a core player after a challenging offseason. Illinois saw only a small amount of returning minutes from last season’s roster, and Ivisic’s return will help stabilize the squad heading into next year.
Ivisic played the fifth-most minutes on the team last season, though his overall time on the court would have been higher had he not been sidelined by illness. This upcoming season will be his junior year, even though last year was his first in college basketball. Ivisic came to Illinois with three years of professional experience, having played for SC Derby in the Adriatic League First Division since the 2021-22 season.
Ivisic is currently ranked 61st on ESPN’s Jonathan Givony’s 2025 NBA Draft big board. A strong performance in the upcoming season, along with a good showing at the combine, could boost his draft stock. The 2026 NBA Draft class is expected to be less competitive, potentially providing Ivisic with an opportunity to move up the board.
