David Mirkovic has expressed the excitement felt by the Illinois Fighting Illini after they advanced to the Sweet 16. The freshman forward perfectly summed up the emotions after their win over VCU. The team’s progression marks the second time since Brad Underwood took over the program that they have reached this stage.
Mirkovic’s Reaction to Sweet 16
Mirkovic spoke of his feelings upon seeing advertisements for the Sweet 16 and watching the team train in an NBA arena. He said he ‘just got goosebumps’. He added that ‘It’s just such a beautiful feeling, this is why we play basketball, and this is the moment we prepared for the whole season’.
Mirkovic said that everyone is excited for the Sweet 16 appearance. Other players like Kylan Boswell, Keaton Wagler and Andrej Stojakovic share in the excitement.
Illinois Prepare to Face Houston
Illinois are scheduled to face the Houston Cougars in Houston. The game could turn into a clash of titans.
Despite the location not being in their favour, Illinois are not backing down. Mirkovic has played well in Illinois’ first two games of the NCAA Tournament, earning his place in the Sweet 16.
- Against Penn Quakers, Mirkovic recorded 29 points, 17 rebounds, and three assists.
- Against VCU, he earned seven points, five rebounds, and four assists.
Game Details
Illinois and Houston are scheduled to tip off. The winner will advance to the Elite Eight, where they will face the winner of Nebraska versus Iowa.
Mirkovic has been putting on absolute clinics through Illinois’s first two games of the NCAA Tournament.