The landscape of college basketball underwent a seismic shift this week as Milan Momcilovic withdraws from the NBA draft to return to the collegiate ranks for his final season of eligibility. The announcement, confirmed by his agents to ESPN, immediately positions the former Iowa State standout as the most coveted player available in the nation. As the No. 1 ranked player in the transfer portal, Momcilovic’s decision to maintain his college eligibility has sent shockwaves through high-major programs looking to finalize their rosters for the 2026-27 campaign.
Milan Momcilovic Withdraws from NBA Draft to Chase National Title
Momcilovic’s decision to bypass the professional ranks for one more year comes after a thorough evaluation of his current draft stock and the opportunities presented by the collegiate NIL environment. By officially removing his name from consideration for the 2026 NBA Draft, Momcilovic has set the stage for a massive recruitment battle among some of the most prestigious programs in the country. Standing at 6-foot-9 with what many scouts consider the purest jump shot in the nation, he represents the ultimate "stretch" threat that every modern coach craves.
According to reports, the decision was finalized after discussions between Momcilovic and his representation. While he has solidified himself as a high-level NBA prospect, the opportunity to lead a championship-caliber team as a senior leader appears to be the driving force behind his return. This move ensures that the 2026-27 college basketball season will feature the most efficient perimeter scorer in the amateur ranks.
A Historic Shooting Season: By the Numbers
Before entering the transfer portal and testing the NBA draft waters, Momcilovic established himself as a premier talent during his three-year tenure at Iowa State. While he showed flashes as a freshman, his junior season (2025-26) was nothing short of historic. Momcilovic led the entire nation in three-point shooting accuracy, connecting on a blistering 48.7% of his attempts from beyond the arc.
His statistical profile from the most recent season highlights why he is the consensus top player in the portal:
- Scoring: 16.9 points per game
- Efficiency: 48.7% 3PT (Ranked 1st in NCAA)
- Experience: 3 seasons of high-major starting experience
- Leadership: Served as a primary offensive engine for a Top-25 program
Now that he is officially returning to school, he is widely considered the top prize in the transfer market. Unlike his earlier years where he was a "standout prospect," he enters the 2026-27 season as a veteran sharpshooter and a proven senior leader. With only one year of eligibility remaining, he is a "win-now" addition for any program with championship aspirations.
High-Major Programs Lining Up for the Senior Sharpshooter
With the news that Milan Momcilovic withdraws from the NBA draft, several elite programs have already emerged as potential landing spots. The recruitment is expected to move quickly as the summer period approaches. Key schools to watch include:
- Kentucky Wildcats: The University of Kentucky is looking for a signature veteran addition to provide spacing for their elite backcourt.
- Arizona Wildcats: The University of Arizona has a history of utilizing versatile, tall forwards, and Momcilovic’s elite shooting would fit seamlessly into their fast-paced system.
- St. John's Red Storm: St. John's University has been aggressive in the portal, seeking a high-level veteran scorer to elevate their standing in the Big East.
- Louisville Cardinals: The University of Louisville is looking for a cornerstone senior to lead their roster overhaul and provide immediate offensive gravity.
Each of these programs offers a unique path for Momcilovic. Whether he chooses the blue-blood prestige of Kentucky, the tactical system at Arizona, or the bright lights of New York with St. John's, his choice will likely dictate the power balance in their respective conferences next season.
Impact on the 2027 NBA Draft Board
While the immediate focus is on where Momcilovic will play next season, his decision to return to college is a strategic move for his professional future. By spending his senior year in the collegiate system, he has the chance to further showcase his playmaking and defensive versatility. A dominant final season as the primary option on a contender could easily vault him into the first-round conversation for the 2027 NBA Draft.
For now, the college basketball world waits with bated breath. Momcilovic has proven he can compete at the highest level, and his final chapter in the NCAA will be one of the most followed storylines of the 2026-27 season. As programs prepare their final pitches, one thing is certain: whoever lands Milan Momcilovic is getting a bona fide star and the best shooter in the country.
Sources & Original Reporting
