A list of the closest NBA comparisons for Illinois returners

We’re deep in the offseason. A summer of hype around new recruits and NBA Draft anticipation has now become quiet. To pass time, let’s take a look at the Illini’s returning core and their closest NBA comparisons.

Mirkovic and Randle are almost identical when it comes to their body frames, with Mirk sitting at 6-foot-9 and 250 pounds and Randle at 6-foot-8 and 250. The similarities are also seen in what they do with their bodies: they both love to play bully-ball. With both of them lacking elite verticals above the rim, they instead utilize their frames to fight through contact, dominate the glass and get buckets at the rim.

EAST LANSING, MI – FEBRUARY 7: Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) splits defenders on his way to the hoop during a college basketball game between the Michigan State Spartans and Illinois Fighting Illini on February 7, 2026 at the Breslin Center in East Lansing, MI. (Photo by Adam Ruff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Julius Randle combines the bully-ball aspect of his game with his ability to knock down shots from the perimeter, making 33% of his 3-point shots throughout his career. David Mirkovic does the same, stretching defenses out to the arc to contest his triples when it isn’t working for him in the paint. Mirk shot 37.5% from long-range last season, attempting around four per game. Randle also attempted around four per game last season. Obviously, neither is a spot-up shooter, but they both pose a scoring threat from the paint and the perimeter. 

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Both of them are primarily power forwards, but they both can act as point forwards. Randle occasionally initiates the offense from the perimeter and is able to grab a defensive rebound and push coast-to-coast. Mirkovic’s background as a point guard gives him similar traits, and they both possess high IQ and passing vision as power forwards. 

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – MAY 15: Julius Randle #30 of the Minnesota Timberwolves drives to the basket against De’aaron Fox #4 of the San Antonio Spurs in the first quarter in Game Six of the Second Round of the NBA Western Conference…

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Publish date : 2026-08-11 16:43:00

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