Brief
UCLA freshman Nikola Kusturica draws NBA draft buzz
The 17‑year‑old forward is projected as a top 2028 NBA draft pick after a standout summer and a strong practice showing at UCLA.
By Felo News Desk · Published
UCLA freshman forward Nikola Kusturica, 17, is being touted as a potential top pick in the 2028 NBA Draft, according to the New York Post. The Serbian‑born player, who averaged 24.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.7 assists for his national team at the FIBA Under‑17 World Cup, impressed teammates and coaches during a Tuesday practice session.
What happened
During a brief practice observed by reporters, Kusturica used his 6‑foot‑9 frame and long limbs to defend aggressively, blocking drives and disrupting passes. Coach Mick Cronan noted the freshman’s relentless effort, saying he "goes hard, never subs out" and that he must be managed carefully to keep him fresh for the season.
What the reports add
The article highlights a summer workout Kusturica completed with NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo, describing the experience as a "big thing" for the youngster. It also cites teammate Xavier Booker’s comparison of Kusturica to a younger version of Kevin Durant and Giannis, a claim Kusturica himself called "a little cocky" but admitted he believes he is a better passer.
What was said
"This might sound a little cocky," Kusturica told reporters, smiling, "but I think I’m also a little better passer." He added, "To see how an NBA star is working like he’s hungry and he has everything already, that was a big thing for me." Coach Cronan said, "He acts like a senior as far as that goes… I have got to manage him as far as how to get through this, but he’s so driven to be a great player." The article also quotes UCLA Athletics, noting the coach barred Kusturica from an extra evening workout after noticing fatigue from lengthy practices.
How it came about
Kusturica’s rise follows UCLA’s recent success, including a 52‑38 win over Purdue earlier in September, and builds on his standout performance at the Under‑17 World Cup where he earned the Best Defensive Player award with 2.3 steals and 1.7 blocks per game. His early exposure to elite competition and NBA mentorship positions him as a focal point for the Bruins’ upcoming season.
Key facts
- Nikola Kusturica is a 17‑year‑old freshman forward at UCLA projected as a top 2028 NBA draft pick. (nypost.com)
- He averaged 24.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.7 assists at the FIBA Under‑17 World Cup, winning Best Defensive Player. (nypost.com)
- Coach Mick Cronan limited Kusturica’s extra evening workouts to manage fatigue. (nypost.com)
- Kusturica trained this summer with NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo. (nypost.com)
- Teammate Xavier Booker compared Kusturica to a younger Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo. (nypost.com)
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “UCLA basketball’s 17-year-old freshman wise, skilled beyond his years”
