Kentucky Basketball appeared to have all the momentum needed to complete its roster for the 2026-27 season. With one scholarship spot remaining, many believed the Wildcats were closing in on 17-year-old Serbian standout Nikola Kusturica.
That confidence grew on Tuesday when 247 Sports recruiting analyst Travis Branham logged a crystal ball prediction for Kentucky to land the 6-foot-8 small forward who currently plays for FC Barcelona.
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However, the recruiting picture changed quickly.
On Wednesday, Branham removed his Crystal Ball prediction and reported that Kusturica is still deciding whether to remain with FC Barcelona for another season and enter college basketball for the 2027-28 campaign, or make the jump to college basketball this upcoming season. Branham added that he currently believes Kusturica will likely play college basketball this year.
If that happens, Kentucky remains firmly in the mix, but the Wildcats are no longer viewed as the overwhelming favorite. Gonzaga, UCLA, and Michigan are also heavily involved in the recruitment.
For now, Kentucky fans will have to wait a little longer. Mark Pope and the Wildcats remain a serious contender for Kusturica, but what once looked like an imminent addition has become a much more competitive recruiting battle.
