When Iowa State forward Milan Momcilovic entered the transfer portal, it sent shockwaves through college basketball. Widely considered one of the best—if not the absolute best—player available, his decision instantly became a top offseason storyline.
However, the situation has a major twist. Momcilovic is also testing the 2026 NBA Draft waters and is reportedly leaning toward staying in. Yet, with ESPN ranking him 44th overall, a first-round selection is far from guaranteed. In the modern NIL era, this draft exploration can also be a strategic move to gauge his value and potentially secure more lucrative offers to return to school.
On the court, Momcilovic's credentials are impeccable. This season, he averaged 16.9 points on elite 50.6% shooting, including a blistering 48.7% from deep on over seven attempts per game. He led the NCAA with 136 three-pointers, cementing his reputation as the nation's premier shooter. Kentucky fans got a firsthand look at his talent when he dropped 20 points, including four threes, in Iowa State's NCAA Tournament victory over the Wildcats. His pro-ready skill set suggests a long NBA future, whether it begins this year or later.
If a first-round draft promise doesn't materialize, a return to college basketball with potential NIL offers in the $4-5 million range could be too significant to pass up. That begs the question: would Kentucky be a contender for his services?
According to CBS Sports analyst Isaac Trotter, the answer is yes. In his rankings of the top 100 transfer portal prospects—where Momcilovic sits at No. 2—Trotter listed Kentucky among the expected suitors should the sharpshooter withdraw from the draft. "Momcilovic has his sights set on the NBA Draft, but if he returns to college basketball, he is a plug-and-play difference-maker for anybody because he has an elite trait. Florida, Kentucky and Kansas will be in the mix if this recruitment opens up," Trotter wrote.
While Florida has been viewed as a serious contender, speculation suggests the Gators might return four of five starters, potentially altering their roster needs. This could open the door for other blue-blood programs, keeping the college basketball world watching Momcilovic's next move closely.