NBA Draft Combine: Key Stay-or-Go Decisions for Top Prospects Milan Momcilovic, Malachi Moreno, and More

Introduction

The NBA Draft Combine in Chicago continues to be a pivotal event for college basketball prospects weighing their options between turning professional or returning to college. Recent player interviews and performances have shed light on the critical stay-or-go decisions facing several top draft hopefuls, including Milan Momcilovic, Malachi Moreno, and other notable players from across the NCAA.

Highlights from the NBA Draft Combine

The combine serves as a crucial platform for prospects to showcase their skills, gather feedback from NBA scouts, and make informed decisions about their future. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most talked-about prospects and their current status regarding the draft or college return.

Milan Momcilovic: A High-Stakes Choice

Milan Momcilovic, a transfer wing from Iowa State and one of the top shooters in the 2026 NBA Draft class, faces a significant decision. With interest from major programs like Kentucky, Louisville, St. John’s, and UCLA, Momcilovic’s choice could impact multiple college rosters and NBA draft projections.

Momcilovic emphasized that he remains focused on the draft process, with the May 27 deadline approaching. He mentioned that while some teams have shown high interest and possibly made promises, he is waiting for guaranteed contract offers or second-round deals, which could influence his decision to stay in the draft or return to college.

He stated, “If there are guaranteed contracts, that would be good. If it’s later in the second round, those are usually two-way contracts, then I’d probably go back.” His decision hinges on the type of offer he receives in the coming weeks.

With various college programs eager to add a sharpshooter like Momcilovic, he could command a market value exceeding $5 million, making his decision even more complex.

Malachi Moreno: Controversy and Decisiveness

Malachi Moreno, a freshman center at Kentucky ranked No. 48 in CBS Sports’ NBA prospect rankings, raised eyebrows by skipping Wednesday’s scrimmages. His absence has sparked speculation about whether he received a promise from NBA teams or is bluffing to gain leverage.

Moreno explained, “After talks with my brother and my agent, they said I was in a good spot. I have a Pro Day coming up and other workouts planned, so I want to be full-strength for those.” The decision to skip scrimmages suggests Moreno is carefully weighing whether to stay in the draft or return to Kentucky, where he would be an essential piece alongside Franck Kepnang to potentially elevate the Wildcats’ roster.

Moreno’s potential return could be a game-changer for Kentucky’s upcoming season, especially considering the ongoing roster uncertainties and the team’s need for a dominant big man.

Other Notable Prospects and Their Decisions

• Henri Veesaar (North Carolina): Plans to stay in the draft, citing belief in his NBA development and the benefits of professional experience.
• Amari Allen (Alabama): Will return to Tuscaloosa if feedback indicates he is outside the first round, with a measured height that slightly disappointed scouts but still shows promise for development.
• Tyler Tanner (Vanderbilt): Considering returning to college, with the player emphasizing his NBA aspirations over remaining in the NCAA.
• Meleek Thomas and Billy Richmond (Arkansas): Face decisions to either stay in the draft or return to college, with Thomas leaning toward the draft and Richmond planning to return.
• Allen Graves (Santa Clara): Likely to stay in the draft, based on his strong measurements and draft stock.
• Other prospects such as Jacob Cofie and Jeremy Fears Jr.: Expected to return to college, continuing their development.

Predictions and Implications

While no decisions are final until the May 27 deadline, industry insiders project that several key players will opt to stay in the draft, including Koa Peat, Dailyn Swain, and Andrej Stojakovic. Conversely, prospects like Moreno and Tanner are leaning toward returning to college to further hone their skills.

The choices made by these athletes will significantly influence their careers and the competitive landscape of college basketball in the upcoming season. For prospects like Momcilovic and Moreno, the next few weeks will be critical in determining whether they will transition to the NBA or use another year of college to improve their draft stock.

Conclusion

The NBA Draft Combine continues to be a decisive event, with prospects navigating complex decisions about their future. As the May 27 deadline approaches, players, coaches, and fans alike are watching closely to see who will make the leap to professional basketball and who will return to college for another developmental year.