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Momcilovic's $6M NIL Deal Shocks College Basketball
15 Jul
Summary
- Milan Momcilovic transferred to Kentucky for a $6 million NIL valuation.
- He is the No. 2 highest NIL valuation among all college athletes.
- Kentucky secured him with a substantial NIL package, outbidding others.

The Iowa State Cyclones have lost men's basketball player Milan Momcilovic, who has transferred to the Kentucky Wildcats. This move comes after Momcilovic entered his name into the 2026 NBA Draft, a decision that complicated his return to college basketball due to roster and transfer portal considerations.
Momcilovic's transfer to Kentucky is significantly bolstered by a substantial NIL package, reflecting his impressive valuation. On3's updated rankings place him as the No. 1 men's basketball player and the No. 2 overall college athlete in terms of NIL valuation, with an impressive $6 million. This figure is second only to Miami (FL) Hurricanes quarterback Darian Mensah.
The significant NIL compensation offered by Kentucky was a key factor in Momcilovic's decision, as he was unlikely to achieve such financial standing by remaining at Iowa State or entering the 2026 NBA Draft as a fringe prospect.
Several other prominent men's college basketball players also feature high on On3's NIL valuation list. Flory Bidunga of Kansas to Louisville holds a $6 million valuation. Tounde Yessoufou of Baylor to St. John's is valued at $5 million, potentially influencing Momcilovic's deal. Massamba Diop's move from Arizona State to Gonzaga also secured him a $5 million valuation.