Serbian wing Nikola Kusturica has committed to the UCLA men's basketball team, choosing the Bruins over Michigan.
The decision ends an intense recruiting battle that involved several prominent programs.
Recruiting Shift
Kusturica was initially projected to land at Kentucky, according to 247Sports analyst Travis Branham, before that prediction was removed.
The recruitment trajectory then favored Michigan until head coach Dusty May left the program to join the Dallas Mavericks.
Following May's departure, momentum shifted entirely toward head coach Mick Cronin and UCLA.
The Wolverines missed out on filling their final remaining roster spot with the international standout.
Tournament Performance
Kusturica previously earned tournament MVP honors during the 2025 FIBA U16 EuroBasket Tournament.
He averaged 20 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.1 steals per game while shooting 49.5 percent from the field.
Michigan's Next Steps
Interim head coach Mike Boynton Jr. will now focus on retaining Michigan's current roster.
Guard L. J.
Cason remains the lone player who has yet to reaffirm his commitment to the Wolverines for the upcoming season.
