
Illini ride European talent to a first Final Four since 2005
Illinois reached the Final Four after betting on European talent—headlined by 7-foot-2 Croatian-born Tomislav Ivisic and his Serbian twin Zvonimir, plus Mihailo Petrovic and other Balkan players—and by transforming roster roles (Keaton Wagler moving to point guard) for a size‑ and skill‑driven pro‑style attack. The win over Iowa capped Brad Underwood’s first Final Four after a long coaching career, underscoring Illinois’ bold, overseas recruiting strategy.













