UCLA forward Nikola Kusturica has been named the CBS Sports and United States Basketball Writers Association Freshman of the Week for the opening week of the 2026-27 college basketball season. The 17-year-old has captured attention with two outstanding performances, establishing himself as a potential top prospect in the sport despite being ineligible for this year's NBA Draft.
Kusturica, along with Duke's Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje and Texas' Marcus Spears Jr., will not turn 18 until 2027. This age requirement means they do not meet the eligibility criteria for the 2027 NBA Draft. While this is a positive development for college basketball fans who get to watch elite talent for longer, it presents a challenge for NBA teams seeking immediate foundational pieces for their rosters.
In his most recent game, Kusturica recorded 29 points, six rebounds, three assists, and two blocks in a decisive victory over North Florida. He shot 10-for-12 from the field, including 4-for-5 from three-point range and 5-for-5 from the free-throw line. Notably, he committed zero turnovers throughout the game, a feat that drew specific praise from his coach.
UCLA head coach Mick Cronin highlighted the young forward's versatility and ball security. Cronin described Kusturica as a great player who does everything on the court, noting that having no turnovers with the ball in his hands is unheard of for a freshman. This comment underscores the high level of control Kusturica already possesses at such a young age.
His performance against North Florida followed an impressive opening night debut against Arizona. In that upset victory, Kusturica contributed three blocks and two steals, demonstrating his defensive impact beyond scoring. These combined efforts have led to significant buzz regarding his potential to be the number one pick in the 2028 NBA Draft.
Kusturica ranks first in the weekly top five list of freshmen, averaging 19.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. He appears extremely comfortable in the collegiate setting and has proven he can influence games through both efficient scoring and defensive play. His ability to hit his first nine shots in the North Florida game further illustrates his offensive readiness.
In second place is Kansas forward Tyran Stokes, who is projected to be the number one pick in the 2027 NBA Draft. Stokes started his career with 15 points, seven rebounds, and a block in a win over Fordham. He has played limited minutes due to lopsided victories but is expected to see more action when Kansas faces Kentucky in the Champions Classic this Tuesday.
West Virginia guard Miles Sadler holds the third spot in the rankings. The 6-foot guard has averaged 20.5 points and 7.5 assists in his first two games. He scored 25 points in a win over Stetson and is considered one of the most exciting players to watch this season. His playmaking ability is a central pillar of the Mountaineers' current success.
Illinois guard Quentin Coleman ranks fourth, having nearly recorded a triple-double in his college debut with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists in just 23 minutes. He followed that performance with 19 points in his second game. Coleman is already viewed as a serious impact player for an Illinois team expected to field one of the nation's best offenses.
Rounding out the top five is Arkansas guard Jordan Smith Jr. He has averaged 19.5 points per game, including 19 points and four steals in a recent loss to Virginia. Smith displayed a similar level of defensive aggression in his debut, where he scored 20 points and recorded three steals. He is emerging as a key two-way player under coach John Calipari.
