The NBA Draft Combine in Chicago has wrapped up player interviews, and with the May 27 deadline approaching, several top prospects face pivotal stay-or-go decisions. Here's a breakdown of what we learned and what to expect from the biggest names still on the fence.
Milan Momcilovic: The Sharpshooter at a Crossroads
Milan Momcilovic, the Iowa State transfer wing, is one of the hottest names in both the 2026 NBA Draft and the transfer portal. As a top-tier shooter who could lead college basketball in 3-pointers for a second straight season, his decision is a major pivot point for programs like Kentucky, Louisville, St. John's, and UCLA—all eager to add a net-shredder to their rosters.
Momcilovic is keeping his options open. "I'm still focused on the draft," he said Wednesday. "I haven't even talked to any colleges yet, but I'm sure if I have to go back, there is a spot open for me somewhere." He noted that his decision will come down to draft promises: "If there are guaranteed contracts, that would be good. If it's later in the second round, those are usually two-way contracts, then I'd probably go back."
Kentucky coach Mark Pope was in Chicago to support former UK star Otega Oweh and big men Jayden Quaintance and Malachi Moreno. Adding Momcilovic would give the Wildcats a much-needed top-shelf star, pairing his shooting with playmaking guards like Alex Wilkins and Zoom Diallo. Rick Pitino's St. John's program has money to spend after missing on big man Massamba Diop, while UCLA has funds freed up after losing John Blackwell to Duke. Louisville, meanwhile, is building aggressively with no budget concerns.
Malachi Moreno: The Big Man's Balancing Act
Malachi Moreno, a standout big man, is another key name to watch. His decision will heavily impact Kentucky's roster construction. If Moreno stays in the draft, the Wildcats will need to pivot their recruiting strategy. If he returns, he could anchor a formidable frontcourt alongside Momcilovic, giving Kentucky one of the most balanced lineups in the country.
Other Draft Hopefuls to Watch
Beyond Momcilovic and Moreno, several other prospects are weighing their options. Jayden Quaintance, another big man, impressed at the combine and could be lured by a guaranteed contract. For many players, the decision comes down to draft position: a first-round promise often means staying in, while a late second-round or two-way offer typically sends them back to school for another year of development.
With the deadline just weeks away, expect a flurry of activity as teams make their pitches and players finalize their futures. For fans of the programs involved, the next few days could shape the entire college basketball landscape for the upcoming season.