Overview
- Multiple outlets reported on Saturday that UCLA has offered Kusturica a reported two‑year, $12 million name‑image‑likeness package to recruit the 17‑year‑old Serbian prospect.
- Kusturica is a 6'8" wing who has stood out internationally, averaging roughly 22 points per game at the FIBA U17 World Cup and holding youth records with FC Barcelona.
- The deal is unusually large for a teenager and would put Kusturica among the top earners compared with many EuroLeague players, which helps explain why European clubs considered keeping him.
- Reporters say UCLA’s pitch was strengthened by an on‑staff Serbian coach who also works with the national team, creating a personal link between the prospect and the program.
- Observers say the reported offer illustrates how big NIL packages are changing international recruiting by giving U.S. colleges a way to lure elite young players away from professional clubs and toward an expedited college‑to‑NBA path.