Full Breakdown
Milan Momcilovic’s Draft Decision and the Battle for His Return
5/15/2026, 5:43:33 AM
Momcilovic’s Draft Decision and Transfer-Portal Status
Iowa State forward Milan Momcilovic entered the 2026 NBA Draft Combine while simultaneously placing his name in the NCAA transfer portal. The deadline to withdraw from the draft and retain college eligibility is May 27. Momcilovic has repeatedly said he is “still focused on the draft” and has not spoken with any schools, though he acknowledges that “if I have to go back, there’s a spot open for me somewhere.”
Season Highlights and Combine Performance
During the 2025-26 season Momcilovic led Division I in both 3-point percentage (48.7 %) and total 3-pointers made (136), the first player ever to top both categories in the same year. He also shot 50.6 % from the field and 87.8 % from the free-throw line, ranking among the nation’s most efficient scorers. At the Chicago combine he finished in the top six of every shooting drill, posting a perfect 10-for-10 on free throws and ranking fifth in spot-up shooting (17-of-25) and off-the-dribble shooting (22-of-30).
Interested Programs and Their Stakes
Three programs have been identified as the most likely destinations should Momcilovic return:
- St. John’s Red Storm – Associate head coach Steve Masiello was present at the combine, and the program’s limited roster openings make Momcilovic a potential catalyst for a third consecutive Big East title.
- Kentucky Wildcats – Head coach Mark Pope held a Zoom meeting with Momcilovic and has publicly signaled that a shooter of his caliber would fill a critical scoring void.
- Louisville Cardinals – Pat Kelsey’s staff has described Momcilovic as a “real threat” with a “blank check” to secure his commitment, emphasizing the need for a true power-forward who can stretch the floor.
Data & Statistics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 3-point % | 48.7 % | Nation-leading |
| 3-pointers made | 136 | Nation-leading |
| Field-goal % | 50.6 % | Season average |
| Free-throw % | 87.8 % | Season average |
| Combine shooting rank | Top 6 in all categories | Spot-up, off-dribble, free throws |
Official Statements & Program Responses
- St. John’s highlighted Momcilovic’s fit for a “go-to scorer” as the Red Storm aim to repeat as Big East champions.
- Kentucky’s staff described the forward as a “plug-and-play fit” for Pope’s offense and indicated that a Zoom call has already taken place.
- Louisville’s recruiting updates noted that the Cardinals have already secured multiple transfers and view Momcilovic as the final piece to solidify a Final-Four-level roster.
- Iowa State head coach T.J. Otzelberger issued a statement supporting Momcilovic’s decision-making process, emphasizing family and future considerations.
Criticism & Analyst Perspectives
NBA analyst Krysten Peek (NBA.com) argued that Momcilovic “might be better off returning to college” to maximize earnings through NIL and improve draft stock, noting that “guaranteed contracts are rare at this stage.” Conversely, other scouts cited his “high interest” and potential for a first-round guarantee as reasons to stay in the draft.
Conflicting Projections & Gaps
Mock drafts vary: some place Momcilovic in the early second round, while others list him as a late first-round candidate. No program has publicly confirmed a formal offer, and the exact terms of any potential guarantee remain unspecified.
Implications for College Basketball
If Momcilovic joins St. John’s, the Red Storm could become the favorite to three-peat in the Big East. A Kentucky landing would address the Wildcats’ shooting deficit, while Louisville would gain a marquee scorer to bolster a Final-Four push. Each scenario reshapes the competitive landscape for the 2026-27 season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m still focused on the draft. 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,” — Milan Momcilovic, forward
- “If I return to college, just a fit that I can play well in and hopefully help my chances to go to the NBA the year after that,” — Milan Momcilovic
- “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. We’ll see.” — Milan Momcilovic
- “I hear that Louisville is a serious threat to get him (Momcilovic) out of that group,” — Kyle Tucker, ESPN Radio Lexington
What’s Next
Momcilovic must decide by the May 27 deadline whether to remain in the NBA draft or enroll at St. John’s, Kentucky, or Louisville. Each outcome will dictate roster construction and championship prospects for the involved programs heading into the 2026-27 season.
