Nikola Kusturica Reportedly Makes CBB Decision, Euro Star Eyed as No. 1 Pick in 2028 NBA Draft
Key Points:
- UCLA secured a commitment from FC Barcelona standout Nikola Kusturica for the 2026-27 season, accompanied by a multiyear NIL agreement, positioning him as a potential No. 1 pick in the 2028 NBA draft.
- Kusturica's recruitment shifted in favor of UCLA after Dusty May left Michigan to coach the Dallas Mavericks, boosting UCLA's standing in recruitment projections.
- The 17-year-old, currently ranked as a 4-star prospect and No. 56 overall in the 2026 class, is noted for his three-level scoring ability and skill to create his own shot.
- Kusturica recently impressed with a 37-point, nine-rebound performance in Serbia's FIBA U17 World Cup gold-medal game against the United States.
- Joining UCLA alongside other incoming talent, Kusturica aims to help the Bruins advance further in the NCAA tournament, following two consecutive second-round exits.