To reach the Final Four, Illinois needed to think outside the box. And country.
NBC News • • sports
Key Points:
- Illinois head coach Brad Underwood recruited five Eastern European players, known as the "Balkan Five," to join the team, creating an unprecedented international roster in college basketball history.
- The "Balkan Five" contribute significantly to Illinois' success, accounting for over 53% of the team's scoring and 57% of its rebounding this season, helping the team reach the national championship game against UConn.
- The introduction of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) compensation in 2021 has made college basketball more attractive to top European players, who previously often chose professional leagues over NCAA programs.
- European players bring advanced experience from playing in professional club systems and leagues like the Adriatic League, making them more mature and prepared than typical American college freshmen.
- Basketball agent Miško Ražnatović noted a shift in his clients' priorities, with many preferring to stay in college longer rather than enter the NBA draft early, and he plans to continue placing groups of European players together on college teams to aid their adjustment.
