Kentucky’s addition of Milan Momcilovic continues to receive national praise, and now one ESPN analyst believes the Wildcats landed the most impactful transfer in the entire country.
After an offseason that dramatically changed expectations for Kentucky basketball, Momcilovic’s arrival from Iowa State has become one of the biggest storylines surrounding Mark Pope’s 2026-27 roster. What was once viewed as a team fighting for a spot in the preseason Top 25 is now being projected as a legitimate contender, thanks in large part to the talented forward’s commitment.
ESPN college basketball analyst Jeff Borzello recently named Momcilovic the “single best player addition” of the transfer portal cycle. Borzello pointed to the forward’s elite shooting ability, proven production at the high-major level, and seamless fit within Pope’s offensive system.
Momcilovic entered the portal as one of the most sought-after players in the country after an outstanding season at Iowa State. Standing 6-foot-8, he established himself as one of the nation’s most dangerous perimeter threats. He led all Division I players in three-point percentage at 48.7 percent while averaging 3.7 made three-pointers per game, making him one of the most efficient shooters in college basketball.
Borzello believes Momcilovic’s game is tailor-made for Kentucky’s offensive approach. Mark Pope’s teams have consistently thrived by creating space and generating a high volume of three-point attempts, and Momcilovic’s ability to stretch defenses should make him a centerpiece of the Wildcats’ attack.
The analyst also pointed to Kentucky’s new-look backcourt featuring Zoom Diallo and Alex Wilkins. Both guards excel at attacking defenders and creating opportunities for teammates, which could lead to countless open looks for Momcilovic throughout the season.
The impact of the commitment has already been felt nationally. Borzello noted that Kentucky’s addition of Momcilovic helped elevate the Wildcats into ESPN’s latest preseason Top 20 rankings and significantly improved the team’s outlook entering the 2026-27 campaign.
Not everyone agreed on the portal’s top addition. Fellow ESPN analyst Myron Medcalf selected former Kansas forward Flory Bidunga, now at Louisville, as his favorite transfer pickup. Medcalf also praised Louisville’s overall transfer class, while Borzello gave the nod to Tennessee’s portal haul.
Still, the spotlight remains firmly on Kentucky and Momcilovic. The Wildcats didn’t simply add another talented player—they added a proven star who many believe could be one of the most influential transfers in the country.
If Momcilovic lives up to the expectations surrounding him, Kentucky’s offense could become one of the most explosive units in college basketball, giving Mark Pope another major weapon as he looks to lead the Wildcats back into national championship contention.
