Momcilovic Withdraws from NBA Draft, Entering $7 Million Transfer Portal

Iowa State transfer Milan Momcilovic has withdrawn his name from the 2026 NBA Draft to return for his senior season, a decision that places him at the centre of a significant financial and competitive bidding war in college basketball. The 6-foot-8 wing, who averaged 16.9 points and shot 48.6% from three-point range for the Cyclones, cited a lack of first-round NBA guarantees and the potential to earn over $7 million in the college transfer market as primary factors in his choice.

Momcilovic is currently ranked as the No. 2-rated player in the 2026 transfer portal cycle. His performance at Iowa State, where he drained 136 triples to join an elite group of shooters in recent college basketball history, helped the team secure a No. 2 seed in the previous NCAA Tournament. Despite his historic shooting efficiency, NBA evaluators have expressed concerns regarding his secondary creation, ball handling, and defensive capabilities in space, limiting his draft projection to the second round.

The financial implications of his decision are substantial. Multiple sources indicated to CBS Sports that Momcilovic’s "get in the door" price could settle above $7 million, potentially making him one of the highest-paid players in the sport. This figure could triple the earnings he might secure as a second-round draft pick, prompting a rapid escalation in interest from major programmes eager to secure his signature.

Several high-profile universities are actively pursuing Momcilovic, each weighing distinct strategic fits against financial constraints. Kentucky and Louisville have been jockeying for position behind the scenes, with Kentucky noted for its offensive fit but carrying risk due to an unproven roster, while Louisville is building a "superteam" but faces concerns about ball distribution among its scorers. St. John’s is highlighted for its point guard play and player development under Rick Pitino, though questions remain regarding the physical demands of their defensive scheme.

Arizona and Texas Tech have also entered the fray, with Arizona seen as a strong basketball fit that may be limited by budget constraints after retaining key players. Texas Tech offers a high ceiling but faces uncertainty regarding the health of key roster pieces. Momcilovic has stated he intends to spend only one more season in college, aiming to make a quick decision among the limited number of schools with both the financial resources and roster spots available.