The Kentucky Wildcats are already looking like a formidable outfit in the off season, with not too long to go before the new campaign begins, but it’s clear that Mark Pope isn’t quite done with recruiting just yet.
Despite the high profile acquisition of Milan Momcilovic, the return of Malachi Moreno after his departure from the NBA draft on withdrawal deadline, and the recruitment of talented four-star Ryan Hampton, there is still scope for at least one more addition in the Kentucky squad.
And per reports, Pope appears to be targeting Serbian star Nikola Kusturica to be that final piece of the puzzle. The only problem? There’s heavy competition to recruit him.
Per the report, Gonzaga appear to be the frontrunners to sign Nikola Kusturica, who has yet to make his decision about whether moving to an American college is the right call to make, but considering the benefits of NIL money, it might well be the right move.
As for Kentucky, they are reportedly in the hunt, and fans want the player to make the commitment as soon as possible.
“He could do a 2 year deal, redshirt, bulk up and learn the system. Then hit the ground running to be the number 1 pick in 2028 🤷🏻♂️,” one fan said.
“I can just imagine how good Kentucky’s offense could be with this dude added to the roster!,” another said.
“Our starting 4,” a fan simply said.
“Gonzaga being the clear favourite is interesting if true. Fogle and Kusturica is a nasty wing duo,” another pointed out.
“If Kusturica leaves this summer too, the damage to the Barça junior is historic,” a fan pointed out after translation.
Who is Nikola Kusturica?
At 6 feet 7 inches tall, Kusturica is one of the tallest Serbian players currently involved in the EuroLeague, with some traits that would be ideal for Kentucky.
He averaged 11 points and 5.8 rebounds in 34 international games during the 2025-26 season, and despite Milan Momcilovic’s similar traits, Kusturica would be the perfect fit to give the Iowa State transfer company.
At 17, he still has a lot to learn, but experience at FC Barcelona has added much needed exposure and experience, which could be vital if college basketball is on the horizon.
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