Illinois head coach Brad Underwood is preparing his squad for a preseason exhibition matchup against Cincinnati this Saturday.. Speaking from Madison Square Garden, Underwood outlined a strategy focused on evaluating diverse lineups and managing player health ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
An NBA-style preseason approach in Cincinnati
Illinois head coach Brad Underwood is treating the upcoming exhibition game against Cincinnati as a tactical laboratory. Speaking in New York, Underwood indicated that the coaching staff intends to utilize a wide variety of lineups and a large roster of players to evaluate different combinations. This strategy, which the report describes as being similar to an NBA preseason game, prioritizes experimentation over the final score.
By rotating through numerous players, the Illinois Fighting Illini staff aims to test their defensive principles in a live, high-pressure setting. This approach allows the coaching staff to see how different personnel groupings interact and communicate before the high-stakes environment of the regular season begins.
Navigating the health status of David Mirkovic and Jake Davis
The Illinois frontcourt is currently navigating several health variables that will shape the Saturday matchup. According to the report, forward David Mirkovic is undergoing a cautious reintegration into team activities as he works toward full health. Similarly, forward Jake Davis is managing an injury, though Underwood noted the situation does not appear to be serious.
These absences are being viewed as strategic opportunities rather than setbacks for the Illini. With Mirkovic and Davis sidelined or limited, players like Jason Jakstys, Landon, and the Ivisic twins are expected to see increased involvement. Underwood highlighted that Jakstys has been "very, very good," suggesting that the depth in the frontcourt provides the team with the versatility to play both large and small depending on the opponent's size .
Lincoln Williams and the freshman learning curve
Freshman Lincoln Williams is entering his first major test against organized competition this weekend. Underwood has praised Williams for his significant growth during practice, specifically noting his ability to run and defend. The coaching staff expects the freshman to be a defensive presence for the Illinois Fighting Illini during the 2026-27 season.
However, the transition to collegiate competition involves more than just physical effort. Underwood emphasized that the staff must help Williams and other freshmen manage the inevitable nerevs and anxiety that come with their first exhibition. For Williams to earn significant minutes, the coach made it clear that consistent effort on the defensive end will be a non-negotiable requirement.
Who will emerge from the unnamed guard rotations?
While Underwood provided details on the frontcourt and certain freshmen, significant questions remain regarding the identity and roles of two specific young guards. The report mentions a "very wired" and aggressive player who must learn to control his emotions on the defensive end to avoid foul trouble.
A second unnamed guard was described as a highly consistent shooter, but one who still needs to prove his value in non-scoring categories. Underwood noted that while the player's scoring ability is evident, the coaching staff is looking for increased contributions in rebounding, guarding, and offensive playmaking. Whether these two players can stabilize the Illinois backcourt remains one of the primary unanswered questions heading into the Cincinnati game.
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