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Illinois aims to play faster basketball after offseason changes

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 2:47 PM

Last updated Aug 6, 2026

Basketball

Summary

Illinois basketball is focusing on increasing its pace of play for the 2026-27 season. Last year's team ranked 288th in adjusted tempo nationally, but the coaching staff believes there is potential for improvement. With NBA draft pick Keaton Wagler departed, the squad will use an initiator-by-committee approach, featuring players like David Mirkovic and Andrej Stojakovic. Head coach Brad Underwood emphasizes a commitment to position-less basketball, aiming for a quicker style of play. The effectiveness of these changes will be evaluated through the upcoming season.

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Key Details

•Illinois ranked 288th in adjusted tempo last season.
•Keaton Wagler was drafted 5th overall by the Clippers.
•Coach Brad Underwood aims for position-less basketball.
•Several players will drive the offense this season.
•Changes are designed to increase pace of play.

Latest Updates

2:47 PMYahoo Sports — Good Morning, Illini Nation: Playing faster?

What they're saying

"
Aug. 6—There's hardly been an offseason that's passed in Champaign without some word out of Ubben Basketball Complex about the next Illinois team playing faster. Has it actually happened? Not always. Last year's Illini ranked 288th nationally in adjusted tempo, per Bart Torvik. Was Illinois quick into actions once it got into its halfcourt offense? Sure. Quick getting up and down the court? ...
— Yahoo Sports

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NBA Basketball

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Yahoo SportsAug 6, 2026, 2:47 PM
Good Morning, Illini Nation: Playing faster?
Aug. 6—There's hardly been an offseason that's passed in Champaign without some word out of Ubben Basketball Complex about the next Illinois team playing faster. Has it actually happened? Not always. Last year's Illini ranked 288th nationally in adjusted tempo, per Bart Torvik. Was Illinois quick into actions once it got into its halfcourt offense? Sure. Quick getting up and down the court? ...

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