$12 million man: UCLA just landed the best international hoop prospect in the world
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Serbian basketball prodigy Nikola Kusturica scored a game-high 37 points in the FIBA U17 World Cup final against the U.S., impressing scouts and coaches with his skill, length, and ability to draw fouls.
- Kusturica averaged 24.6 points and 6.9 rebounds over seven games, earning the tournament's best defensive player award, and has been widely regarded as the top international prospect of his age group.
- He recently signed a multi-year, reportedly lucrative deal with UCLA, choosing the Bruins over other top programs, positioning him to enter the 2028 NBA Draft after two college seasons.
- Kusturica's move from Barcelona's developmental system to U.S. college basketball reflects growing international interest fueled by increased player compensation and the allure of the NCAA pathway.
- Coaches and scouts praise Kusturica not only for his basketball talent but also for his character and leadership, forecasting a bright future and potential top-10 NBA draft selection if he continues his development.
