Milan Momcilovic: News, Kentucky, NBA Draft and Transfer Portal Buzz

College basketball fans across the country are closely following the future of Milan Momcilovic, one of the best shooters in NCAA basketball. The former Iowa State standout has become one of the biggest names in the transfer portal after withdrawing from the 2026 NBA Draft, creating massive interest from blue-blood programs such as Kentucky, Louisville, Arizona, and St. John’s.

Momcilovic’s elite shooting ability, size, and offensive versatility make him one of the most valuable players available in college basketball. With NIL opportunities growing larger than ever, his decision could reshape the national championship race for the upcoming season.

In this article, we break down Milan Momcilovic’s latest news, Kentucky connections, NBA Draft outlook, transfer portal recruitment, career stats, playing style, and what comes next for the Iowa State transfer.

Who is Milan Momcilovic?

Milan Momcilovic is an American college basketball player who previously played for Iowa State. Known primarily for his deadly three-point shooting, Momcilovic emerged as one of the top forwards in the Big 12 Conference.

Standing 6-foot-8, he combines excellent perimeter shooting with strong basketball IQ and floor spacing. His ability to shoot over defenders and stretch defenses has made him a highly coveted player both at the college level and among NBA scouts.

Originally from Pewaukee, Wisconsin, Momcilovic was a highly regarded recruit coming out of high school. He committed to Iowa State and quickly developed into one of the best offensive weapons in the nation.

According to reports, he averaged nearly 17 points per game during the 2025-26 season while leading the NCAA in three-point shooting percentage.

Milan Momcilovic’s Iowa State Career

Momcilovic enjoyed a highly productive career with Iowa State and became one of the best shooters in program history.

During his time with the Cyclones, he played in more than 100 games and established himself as a consistent offensive threat. Reports indicate he finished his Iowa State career with 260 made three-pointers, ranking among the best marks in school history.

His breakout junior season elevated his national profile significantly. He averaged:

• 16.9 points per game
• 3.1 rebounds per game
• Nearly 49% shooting from three-point range

Momcilovic also reportedly led the nation with 136 made three-pointers during the 2025-26 season.

His performance helped Iowa State make another deep NCAA Tournament run and established him as one of the top returning players in college basketball.

Milan Momcilovic NBA Draft Decision

One of the biggest storylines surrounding Momcilovic this offseason involved his decision regarding the 2026 NBA Draft.

After declaring for the draft and participating in the NBA Draft Combine, Momcilovic carefully evaluated his professional options. Scouts praised his shooting ability and offensive efficiency, but questions remained regarding his athleticism, defense, and NBA role.

Several projections placed him as a possible second-round selection. However, second-round contracts often lack long-term guarantees, making the financial outlook uncertain.

Ultimately, Momcilovic withdrew from the 2026 NBA Draft and retained his college eligibility.

That decision immediately transformed him into the top available player in the transfer portal.

Why Milan Momcilovic Returned to College

There are several reasons why Momcilovic chose to return to college basketball instead of remaining in the NBA Draft.

1. NIL Opportunities

Reports suggest Momcilovic could command NIL deals worth $5 million or more through the transfer portal.

For many players projected outside the first round, returning to college can now provide greater short-term financial security than entering the NBA immediately.

2. Improving Draft Stock

Another strong college season could significantly improve Momcilovic’s draft position in 2027. NBA teams value elite shooting, especially from players with size, and another productive season may help address concerns about his overall game.

3. Championship Opportunity

By transferring to a national contender, Momcilovic could compete for a Final Four or national title while further boosting his profile.

Kentucky Emerging as a Major Contender

One of the most talked-about destinations for Momcilovic is Kentucky.

The Kentucky Wildcats, led by head coach Mark Pope, are reportedly heavily involved in recruiting the former Iowa State star.

Kentucky’s offensive system appears to fit Momcilovic perfectly. Pope prefers an up-tempo style with heavy three-point shooting, which aligns well with Momcilovic’s strengths as a floor spacer and perimeter scorer.

Momcilovic himself reportedly praised Kentucky’s style of play and suggested it would be a strong fit for his game.

Adding a player of his caliber would significantly improve Kentucky’s roster and instantly boost the Wildcats’ championship aspirations.

Why Kentucky Makes Sense for Momcilovic

There are several reasons analysts believe Kentucky could be the ideal landing spot.

Elite Exposure

Playing at Kentucky guarantees national exposure, high-profile games, and intense media attention. Strong performances in Lexington often translate into improved NBA Draft positioning.

Perfect Offensive Fit

Mark Pope’s system emphasizes spacing, transition offense, and perimeter shooting. Momcilovic’s ability to shoot from deep would allow him to thrive immediately.

Experienced Supporting Cast

Kentucky has already assembled a talented roster, and adding an elite shooter like Momcilovic could solve one of the team’s biggest needs.

NIL Resources

Kentucky’s NIL support is among the strongest in college basketball, allowing the program to compete financially with other major schools.

Other Teams in the Transfer Portal Race

While Kentucky remains one of the favorites, several other schools are aggressively pursuing Momcilovic.

Louisville

Louisville has emerged as another serious contender. Reports indicate the Cardinals are willing to invest heavily in NIL opportunities and believe Momcilovic could become the centerpiece of their offense.

Arizona

Arizona entered the race after Koa Peat reportedly stayed in the NBA Draft. The Wildcats need additional perimeter shooting and view Momcilovic as a priority target.

St. John’s

Rick Pitino and St. John’s have also been linked to Momcilovic. Although the Red Storm recently landed other major transfer additions, they continue monitoring his situation.

Milan Momcilovic’s Playing Style

Momcilovic is widely considered one of the best pure shooters in college basketball.

Elite Three-Point Shooting

His greatest strength is clearly his perimeter shooting. He can knock down shots off the catch, off movement, and in transition.

Floor Spacing

At 6-foot-8, his shooting forces defenses to extend far beyond the arc, opening driving lanes for teammates.

Basketball IQ

Momcilovic plays with excellent offensive awareness and understands spacing concepts extremely well.

Efficient Scoring

He doesn’t need high usage to impact games. His ability to score efficiently makes him valuable in almost any offensive system.

Areas for Improvement

Although Momcilovic is an elite shooter, NBA scouts still see areas where he can improve.

Defense

Improving lateral quickness and defensive versatility will be important for his NBA projection.

Shot Creation

He thrives as a catch-and-shoot player, but developing stronger isolation and self-creation skills would elevate his game further.

Strength and Athleticism

Adding strength could help him defend multiple positions and finish better through contact.

What NBA Scouts Think About Milan Momcilovic

NBA teams value shooting more than ever, and Momcilovic’s elite efficiency gives him legitimate professional upside.

Scouts see him as a potential stretch forward capable of fitting modern NBA offenses. His shooting profile alone makes him intriguing.

However, teams will continue evaluating:

• Defensive versatility
• Athletic upside
• Playmaking development
• Ability to guard NBA wings

Returning to college gives him another opportunity to answer those questions.

How Momcilovic Could Impact Kentucky

If Momcilovic commits to Kentucky, the Wildcats could instantly become one of the top offensive teams in the country.

His shooting would:

• Improve floor spacing
• Create driving lanes
• Punish zone defenses
• Add veteran experience
• Increase offensive efficiency

Kentucky struggled with consistent perimeter shooting at times last season, and Momcilovic would directly address that weakness.

Many analysts believe adding him could push Kentucky into preseason Top 10 conversations.

Could Milan Momcilovic Become a First-Round Pick?

Yes, absolutely.

The NBA highly values players who can shoot at elite levels, especially forwards with size. If Momcilovic continues producing at a high level while improving defensively, he could rise significantly in future draft boards.

A strong season at a high-profile program like Kentucky could dramatically increase his visibility and draft stock.

Latest Milan Momcilovic News

Recent reports confirmed that Momcilovic officially withdrew from the NBA Draft and will return to college basketball.

Kentucky, Louisville, Arizona, and St. John’s are reportedly among the leading programs pursuing him in the transfer portal.

Recruitment developments continue changing rapidly, and his decision could arrive soon as schools finalize rosters for the 2026-27 season.

What’s Next for Milan Momcilovic?

The next step is choosing his new school.

Wherever he lands, Momcilovic will immediately become one of the most impactful transfers in college basketball. His shooting ability alone can transform an offense and elevate championship expectations.

Whether he chooses Kentucky, Louisville, Arizona, or another contender, he is expected to remain one of the biggest storylines entering the new season.

FAQs About Milan Momcilovic

Who is Milan Momcilovic?

Milan Momcilovic is a former Iowa State basketball player known for his elite three-point shooting and scoring ability.

Did Milan Momcilovic enter the NBA Draft?

Yes, he declared for the 2026 NBA Draft and participated in the NBA Draft Combine before withdrawing.

Why did Milan Momcilovic withdraw from the NBA Draft?

He reportedly withdrew to return to college basketball, improve his draft stock, and take advantage of major NIL opportunities.

Is Milan Momcilovic going to Kentucky?

Kentucky is considered one of the top contenders, but he has not officially committed yet.

Which schools are recruiting Milan Momcilovic?

Kentucky, Louisville, Arizona, and St. John’s are among the schools reportedly pursuing him.

What position does Milan Momcilovic play?

He primarily plays forward and is known as a stretch forward because of his outside shooting.

What are Milan Momcilovic’s stats?

He averaged approximately 16.9 points per game while shooting nearly 49% from three during the 2025-26 season.

Could Milan Momcilovic become an NBA player?

Yes. His elite shooting gives him strong NBA potential, especially if he continues improving defensively and athletically.

Conclusion

Milan Momcilovic has quickly become one of the most important names in college basketball. After withdrawing from the NBA Draft, the former Iowa State star now sits at the center of an intense transfer portal battle involving some of the biggest programs in the country.

His elite shooting, size, and offensive efficiency make him a potential game-changing addition for whichever school lands him. Kentucky remains heavily linked, but Louisville, Arizona, and St. John’s are also pushing hard.

As the offseason continues, Momcilovic’s decision could significantly impact the national championship picture and shape the 2027 NBA Draft conversation.