Illinois Faces Key Injury Questions Ahead of Indiana Clash
As the Illini gear up for a crucial Big Ten matchup against Indiana on Sunday, head coach Brad Underwood is navigating a tricky lineup situation. Two of his most important backcourt pieces-Kylan Boswell and Andrej Stojakovic-are officially game-time decisions, and their availability could swing the momentum of this noon tip in either direction.
Let’s start with Boswell. The sophomore guard has been sidelined for the last seven games after breaking his hand in practice, an injury that required surgery.
But now, he’s back on the floor-at least in practice. That’s a major development for Illinois (20-5, 11-3 Big Ten), which has managed to stay in the thick of the conference race despite his absence.
Whether Boswell is ready for game action, though, is still up in the air.
“Kylan is practicing,” Underwood said. “We’ll see what that status looks like as we get closer to tomorrow at noon in terms of being able to play. We sure don’t want to put him out there not somewhat close to healthy and 100%.”
Translation: the Illini aren’t going to rush him. And they shouldn’t.
Boswell is too important to the long-term picture to risk re-aggravating an injury that’s still fresh. But if he’s even close to full speed, his return could provide a huge boost.
He brings poise, perimeter defense, and an ability to control the tempo-qualities that are tough to replicate, especially in high-pressure conference games.
Then there’s Stojakovic, who’s dealing with a high ankle sprain suffered early in the first half of last week’s loss at Michigan State. Unlike Boswell, his injury is more recent, and the pain is still lingering.
“Andrej has been dealing with a high ankle sprain. A decent amount of pain and soreness,” Underwood said.
“We’ll see what his status is. It’s never good to be down two starters, especially two of your guys with experience.”
That last point hits home. These aren’t just any two players.
Boswell and Stojakovic are experienced, battle-tested guards who have logged meaningful minutes in big moments. Their absence forces Illinois to lean more heavily on younger players or shift roles around the rotation-neither of which is ideal heading into a game that carries significant implications for Big Ten seeding.
Indiana, for its part, will be looking to capitalize on any advantage it can get. The Hoosiers have had their own ups and downs this season, but they’re more than capable of making things difficult if Illinois is shorthanded.
So, as Sunday approaches, Illinois fans will be watching the pregame warmups as closely as the opening tip. Whether it’s both guards, one, or neither suiting up, the Illini will need to adapt quickly. But if either Boswell or Stojakovic is able to go, it could be the difference between a grind-it-out battle and a statement win at home.