Big Blue Nation finally got what it had been waiting for.
Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats officially began fall practice Tuesday, giving fans their first real glimpse of the 2026-27 team as preparations for the new season move into another important phase.
While there are plenty of names expected to attract attention this season, one player immediately stood out as someone BBN should be watching closely.
That name is Milan Momcilovic.
The Iowa State transfer entered practice carrying plenty of expectations because of what he can bring to Kentucky’s offense. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down shots makes him an important piece of what Pope is trying to build.
The encouraging part for Kentucky came with Momcilovic’s recent injury situation.
After suffering a jammed finger on his shooting hand, there had been understandable attention surrounding his availability and progress. However, Momcilovic was back on the court Tuesday and getting shots up while wearing a splint.
Kentucky even shared video of the sharpshooter knocking down jumpers during practice.
That doesn’t erase the need to monitor his recovery, but seeing him back on the floor represents an encouraging development as the Wildcats move closer to game action.
And that’s why Momcilovic could be one of the most intriguing players to follow throughout the early part of the season.
Kentucky has assembled a roster with plenty of size, athleticism and offensive potential, but having a reliable perimeter shooter can change the way defenses approach the Wildcats. Momcilovic’s ability to make shots could create additional space for Kentucky’s other offensive weapons.
For Pope, the opening of practice also provides the coaching staff with valuable time to develop chemistry, determine roles and establish the team’s identity.
The Wildcats are now just 24 days away from their first exhibition matchup against Little Rock on October 16 at Rupp Arena. Kentucky will then face Texas Tech and UCF before opening the regular season against Manhattan on November 3.
There is still plenty of work ahead.
But after the first official practice, one thing is becoming clear: Milan Momcilovic is a name BBN should keep a very close eye on as the new season approaches.
