Milan Momcilovic has already established himself as one of the most dangerous shooters on Kentucky’s roster, but the Wildcats forward wants to make it clear that his game goes far beyond the three-point line.
Speaking during Kentucky’s Media Day, Momcilovic discussed the work he has put into improving defensively ahead of the 2026-27 season. Much of that focus came from feedback he received during the NBA Draft process this past summer.
“A lot of it was defense-focused,” Momcilovic said. “I think they kind of know what I am gonna get from offensive perspective. I’m a shooter.”
At 6-foot-9, Momcilovic brings valuable size and shooting ability to Mark Pope’s roster. However, he understands that becoming a more complete player will require him to make an impact even when his shot is not falling.
One of his biggest goals is taking on the challenge of defending elite players.
“Whoever the superstar is, that is the next step,” Momcilovic said. “I have to guard the superstars, and I am gonna do it.”
That mentality could be particularly important for Kentucky as the Wildcats prepare for another demanding SEC season. Momcilovic believes the team has plenty of offensive firepower, but defense will ultimately be a major part of determining how far the group can go.
“I think something about this team is: can we defend?” he said. “Obviously, we got a lot of really good shooters and scorers, but we need to play defense, so I think I take a lot of pride in that side of the court too.”
Momcilovic is also looking to expand his offensive game.
Rather than relying almost exclusively on his perimeter shooting, he wants to attack the basket more often and create easier scoring opportunities around the rim.
“I am hoping this year I can get some easy twos at the rim, I think thats gonna open my game up a lot more,” Momcilovic said. “I can make it easier for myself…make it so I average a couple more points and just open up a little bit of everything.”
For Kentucky, that development could make Momcilovic even more difficult to defend. If opponents have to respect his three-point shooting while also worrying about his ability to attack the basket, it could create additional opportunities for both him and his teammates.
The message from Momcilovic is clear: he does not want to be known as just a shooter.
He wants to become a player Kentucky can rely on at both ends of the floor, especially when the competition gets tougher.
