The NBA draft combine is underway in Chicago, and while it's typically a stage for scouts to size up future pros, this year's event could have a ripple effect that reaches all the way to the 2027 NCAA tournament. Among the 73 players invited, one name stands out as a potential game-changer for March Madness: Milan Momcilovic.
Momcilovic, a 6-foot-8 sharpshooter from Iowa State, has declared for the NBA draft while also entering the transfer portal—keeping every door open. Last season, he was nothing short of lethal from beyond the arc, averaging 16.9 points per game and shooting an eye-popping 48.7% from three-point range, making him arguably the best shooter in college basketball.
Here's where it gets interesting for hoops fans. If Momcilovic's performance at the combine doesn't meet his expectations, he's likely to return to college basketball, where a long line of suitors is already waiting. And that's where the domino effect begins. A solid program adding a player of his caliber could instantly become great, while a great program could vault into elite territory—potentially altering the landscape of the 2027 title race.
For teams looking to make a deep run in March, landing a proven scorer like Momcilovic could be the missing piece. Whether he stays in the draft or returns to college, his decision this week in Chicago is one of the most fascinating storylines to watch—and it could shape the future of college basketball for years to come.
