Milan Momcilovic officially returns to college as Kentucky ramps up pursuit
Kentucky’s top remaining transfer target is officially back on the board, and the Wildcats are wasting no time making their push.
Much of the criticism surrounding Mark Pope this offseason has centered on Kentucky’s inability to land marquee names in the portal. With the situations involving Tyran Stokes and Donnie Freeman drawing constant attention, frustration among the fanbase has only inintensified.
However, one major opportunity still remains for the Wildcats and it could completely reshape the narrative if it ends in Lexington. That player is Iowa State standout forward Milan Momcilovic.
Kentucky’s pursuit had stayed relatively quiet while Momcilovic evaluated his NBA Draft options, but that process has now come to an end. According to Jon Rothstein, the sharpshooting forward is withdrawing from the 2026 NBA Draft and returning to college basketball, officially opening the door for one of the biggest transfer battles of the offseason.
Now the race is fully underway.
Programs across the country are expected to aggressively pursue Momcilovic, whose NIL value has reportedly skyrocketed into the multi-million-dollar range. Kentucky is believed to be among the frontrunners, but the Wildcats will face stiff competition from Louisville, St. John’s, and Arizona, according to Jeff Goodman.
Arizona, especially, could emerge as a serious contender if Koa Peat remains in the draft, potentially leaving a major opening in the Wildcats’ frontcourt.
Still, Kentucky appears positioned to make a powerful push. The Wildcats reportedly still have NIL resources available and a clear role waiting in the lineup for a player with Momcilovic’s skill set.
The fit also makes plenty of sense stylistically. Pope’s offensive system heavily emphasizes floor spacing and perimeter shooting, making Momcilovic one of the nation’s elite three-point threats a natural target.
After averaging 17 points per game while shooting 48% from beyond the arc, Momcilovic has become one of the most coveted names still available. His ability to stretch defenses and score efficiently would instantly elevate Kentucky’s offense heading into next season.
While there is still another waiting period before Momcilovic announces his decision, this process is expected to move much faster than his draft evaluation. With summer workouts approaching and rosters quickly taking shape, a commitment could come sooner rather than later.
For now, Kentucky fans can only hope the Wildcats finish the job this time around.
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