Milan Momcilovic has withdrawn from the 2026 NBA Draft, opting to return to college basketball for the 2026-27 season, with Kentucky among his top options, according to reports. The Iowa State sharpshooter, who averaged 16.9 points per game on 50.6 percent shooting from the field and 48.7 percent from three, will explore transfer opportunities after testing the professional waters. His decision comes amid speculation about a potential NIL deal exceeding $5 million, with Arizona, Louisville, and St. John’s also in contention.
Momcilovic’s Decision and College Prospects
The 6-8 forward, who led Iowa State to a 26-10 record in 2025-26, confirmed his intent to return to college after attending the NBA Draft Combine. “I think very high interest,” Momcilovic said, though he expressed skepticism about early draft promises. “If there’s obviously guaranteed contracts, that would be good. If it’s the late second round, those are usually two-way contracts. So, then I’d probably go back.” His comments highlight the uncertainty surrounding draft eligibility and the financial incentives of college basketball’s evolving landscape.
Kentucky’s pursuit of Momcilovic has intensified, with the Wildcats seen as a potential fit for his playing style. “I think Kentucky would be a good fit,” he told the Herald-Leader, citing Mark Pope’s system and the program’s emphasis on three-point shooting. Momcilovic’s 260 three-pointers last season—3.7 per game—align with Kentucky’s offensive philosophy, though the team struggled with shooting in 2025-26, finishing with a 22-15 record. His decision to return could reshape the Wildcats’ roster as they seek to rebuild after a disappointing NCAA Tournament exit.
NIL Deals and Transfer Portal Dynamics
Momcilovic’s anticipated NIL deal, rumored to exceed $5 million, underscores the financial stakes in college basketball’s transfer portal. CBS Sports reports he is the No. 2 player available, trailing only Flory Bidunga, who committed to Louisville. While most top transfers have finalized decisions, Momcilovic’s arrival could inject immediate impact into a program. Arizona, which reached the 2025 Final Four, is seen as a strong contender, while St. John’s aims to elevate its national profile.
The 247Sports rankings position Momcilovic as a top-tier portal target, with experts noting his efficiency and experience. His 50.6 percent field-goal accuracy and 87.8 percent free-throw percentage set him apart, though his decision will hinge on program fit and financial offers. “It’s important that he’s able to find a landing spot at a college that fits what he’s looking for,” Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger said, signaling his support for Momcilovic’s choice to prioritize long-term development over immediate professional risk.
Kentucky’s Strategic Move
Kentucky’s interest in Momcilovic reflects a broader strategy to bolster its perimeter shooting. The Wildcats finished 11th in three-point percentage (34.5%) in 2025-26, a shortfall that limited their tournament success. Adding a player with Momcilovic’s efficiency could address that gap, particularly as they navigate the transition under new coach Mark Pope. Pope, who faced criticism for his team’s lack of shooting in 2025, has publicly admired Momcilovic’s game, citing their past matchups in the Big 12.
However, Kentucky’s pursuit is not without challenges. The program’s recent struggles, including a 2025 Round of 32 exit, may deter some top recruits. Momcilovic’s decision could also influence other transfers, as schools gauge his market value. “If I were to choose Kentucky, that would be a good fit for me,” he said, emphasizing the alignment between his skills and Pope’s system. His presence could also impact the Wildcats’ 2026 recruiting class, as they aim to compete in a competitive SEC.
Reactions and Implications
The move has drawn mixed reactions from analysts. Some view it as a pragmatic choice, given the risks of the NBA Draft. “If there’s no guaranteed contract, staying in college makes sense,” one expert noted. Others argue that Momcilovic’s decision reflects the growing influence of NIL deals, which now rival professional opportunities for top talent. “This is a shift in power,” said a college basketball analyst, “where players can leverage their market value without immediate pro commitments.”
For the NCAA, Momcilovic’s path highlights the tension between amateurism and commercialization. His $5 million deal would place him among the highest-paid players in college history, raising questions about equity and competitive balance. Meanwhile, schools like Arizona and Louisville see his recruitment as a chance to elevate their profiles, with Arizona’s 2025 Final Four run providing a blueprint for success.
As Momcilovic weighs his options, the coming weeks will determine which program secures his services. His choice could redefine the 2026-27 season, with implications for the transfer portal, NIL negotiations, and the broader landscape of college basketball. For now, the focus remains on where he’ll land—and how his decision reshapes the game’s evolving dynamics.
“I feel like I’d be a great player for him, and he’d be a good coach for me.”
“The former four-star recruit has been Kentucky’s dream portal target all offseason.”
“Momcilovic is expected to command an NIL deal worth more than $5 million this season.”
From <a From those potential suitors, he must ultimately weigh the strategic benefits of each coaching staff against his own individual goals to determine which destination offers the best path for his career.
