Illinois Basketball 2026-27 Scouting Report: Zvonimir Ivisic

In the days leading up to Illinois’ Nov. 2 regular-season opener at Champaign’s State Farm Center, Illinois on SI will share a scouting report for each Illini player on the team’s official 2026-27 roster. Today, we shine a light on forward Zvonimir Ivisic. Find our scouting reports of other Illinois players as they’re added below.

Zvonimir Ivisic | forward/center | fifth year | No. 44

Hometown: Vodice, Croatia

Previous school: Arkansas

Height: 7-foot-2

Weight: 250 pounds

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Scouting Zvonimir Ivisic

Dec 29, 2025; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini forward Zvonimir Ivisic (44) defends the basket during the first half against the Southern University Jaguars at State Farm Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

So much of what Zvonimir Ivisic brings to the table revolves around his physical traits. At 7-foot-2 and 250 pounds, he has a seemingly endless wingspan, and although his vertical hasn’t been reported in an official capacity, he gets up a lot higher than most 7-footers.

Perhaps more importantly, though, is how quickly Ivisic gets off the ground. With his size and quick springs, he can wall up in the post, wait until a shot has actually left an opponent’s hands and then rise up and swat it out of the air. That rare ability allows “Big Z” to send back shots at an extremely high clip while essentially rarely having to take risks.

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In help side, Ivisic is a spectacular rim protector. Also of note: his agility on the perimeter. Of course, Illinois doesn’t want Ivisic guarding perimeter-oriented players, but when he winds up switched on to one, he tends to hold up just fine.

On offense, Ivisic is unique. He seemingly prefers to plant his feet outside and launch threes (he has attempted more three-pointers than two-pointers in his career). Given his efficiency – 33.6 percent from long range – it isn’t the worst outcome.

At the same time, though, Ivisic has a lot to offer inside. He’s an excellent roller and…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/illinois-basketball-2026-27-scouting-014722393.html

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Publish date : 2026-10-26 01:47:00

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