Illinois basketball considers lineups after Mirkovic's foot surgery

Illinois sophomore David Mirkovic underwent surgery on July 31 for a left foot injury, affecting his availability for the upcoming season. Reports suggest he could be out for 6 to 8 weeks, potentially missing early games. Coach Brad Underwood is exploring two starting lineup options without Mirkovic. The first is a smaller lineup featuring Quentin Coleman, Jake Davis, Stefan Vaaks, Andrej Stojakovic, and Tomislav Ivisic. The alternative includes more height with Coleman, Vaaks, Stojakovic, Zvonimir Ivisic, and Tomislav Ivisic, although this may result in defensive challenges and a lack of a true power forward. Underwood typically avoids frequent lineup changes, but player performance will dictate choices as the season approaches.

• 12:44 PMYahoo Sports — Potential starting lineups if Mirkovic misses time for Illinois