A Strategic Addition for the Huskies
Northern Illinois University’s men’s basketball program received a boost this week when head coach Matt Majkrzak confirmed the addition of Mykolas Ivanauskas for the 2026‑27 season. The announcement was made during a virtual press conference, highlighting the forward’s readiness to contribute immediately.
Ivanauskas, a 6‑foot‑9 native of Chicago, Illinois, joins the Huskies after two seasons at Mercyhurst University, where he developed a reputation for efficient scoring and rebounding. His arrival marks the twelfth recruit in NIU’s 2026‑27 class, underscoring the coaching staff’s focus on bolstering front‑court depth.
What the Numbers Say
During the 2025‑26 campaign, Ivanauskas averaged 7.4 points and 5.1 rebounds per game while shooting 56 percent from the field. He appeared in 32 contests, starting 31 of them, and helped the Lakers of Mercyhurst secure a 17‑win season and a berth in the NEC Tournament championship game.
As a freshman in 2024‑25, he posted 4.6 points and 3.7 rebounds per game, showing a clear upward trajectory that caught the attention of NIU’s coaching staff.
Coach Majkrzak praised the newcomer’s work ethic, noting that “Ivanauskas brings a high motor on both sides of the ball and a level of production that aligns with the successful international players we’ve seen in the game.”
The coach also highlighted the player’s basketball IQ, suggesting that his feel for the game could translate into meaningful minutes early in his collegiate career.