It’s been an interesting couple of months for Milan Momcilovic. The 6-foot-8 forward entered the transfer portal and tested the NBA draft waters, leaving all possible options open for the next chapter of his basketball career.
Momcilovic told The Des Moines Register that his preference was to go to the NBA, despite the lucrative and attractive alternatives he had in college.
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While the former Iowa State star might be slightly disappointed that his NBA dreams won’t be realized next season, there are a few reasons why staying in college for another year is the best thing that could’ve happened to him.
USA TODAY Sports reported that Momcilovic elected to transfer to Kentucky, which had kept in touch with the transfer portal target via Zoom meetings this spring.
With a strong season at a different school, perhaps with a different dynamic than he is used to at Iowa State, Momcilovic could ultimately boost his draft stock heading into 2027. Scouts could look favorably upon his ability to thrive in various situations, which is something he will have to do at the next level anyway.
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Additionally, Momcilovic has one more chance to prove that he can contribute to winning in ways other than scoring at the college level. He’s a prolific three-point shooter but has left fans wanting more on the rebounding end for someone his size. Momcilovic has only averaged three boards per game throughout his college career at six-foot-eight, and a strong season on the glass could help round out his prospect profile.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly for Momcilovic and his family, Kentucky backed up the Brinks truck to bring him to the program. The forward is reportedly receiving more than $6 million next season, which is much more than he would have earned in the NBA as a late first-round or second-round pick.
All things considered, the result puts Momcilovic in a favorable position to improve on the court while adding to his bank account off of it.
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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Kentucky Basketball: Milan Momcilovic will benefit from college return
