Big Ten Favorites Facing Early Concerns

The Big Ten conference is fresh off its first College Basketball National Championship in over 26 years. The Michigan Wolverines ran the table and captured the elusive crown. Now, with the 2026-27 season just days away, some of the Big Ten’s favorites are gearing up to make a run at another National Championship.

The favorites in the Big Ten for this season are Tom Izzo’s Michigan State Spartans, Brad Underwood’s Illinois Fighting Illini, and Michigan under new head coach Mike Boynton Jr. However, even before the regular season begins, each team has some concerns to sort out.

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Top Big Ten Teams Enter Season with Some Concerns

Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) defends center Tomislav Ivisic (13) as Ivisic shoots during practice ahead of a Final Four game on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Mandatory Credit: Christine Tannous/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Illinois Success Will Be Determined By Health

The Fighting Illini had their most successful season in decades in 2025-26, reaching the Final Four. Their run was led by Keaton Wagler, along with Tomislav Ivisic and David Mirkovic. Wagler is now in the NBA, while the other two are back. That bodes well for the Illini, who have won many Big Ten games over the last five years.

The only issue right now is health. Ivisic got banged up during the Illini’s exhibition game against the Baylor Bears. Andrej Stojakovic also suffered an injury in that same game. The biggest concern is Mirkovic’s long-term health. He fractured his left foot back in July and has been on the shelf since.

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Other than the injuries, Illinois has plenty of depth for the 2026-27 campaign. They have a chance not only to win the Big Ten but also to make a run at the National Title. Health will certainly determine the outcome of the season for Illinois.

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Publish date : 2026-10-31 10:00:00

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