2 min read Author: Kaleia Knappe
Image Credit: 247 Sports
Mihailo Mušikić committed to KU on July 14. So why hasn’t KU announced anything?
KU has not confirmed Mušikić’s commitment to the Jayhawks because he is now facing an uphill battle to get cleared by the NCAA for the 2026-27 season. Mušikić is 24 years old and has been playing professionally for the last several years. Professionally, the 7-footer averaged 11.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2 assists, 0.7 blocks, with 63% free throw shooting
Possible issues with eligibility:
“5 in 5”: On June 23, 2026, the NCAA passed the “5 in 5” rule. This means that a player’s eligibility begins when they turn 19 or when the season of their freshmen year begins. Whichever comes first. In the case of Mušikić, he turns 25 before the end of the season (March 25, 2027) which could influence whether he would even qualify with the rules to play at all, much less play as a freshman.
Pro Years: Before choosing the Kansas Jayhawks, Mušikić played 5 years in professional Croatian and Serbian leagues. When looking into gifting a player’s eligibility, the NCAA investigates how long the player has played professionally, as well as what they averaged, and their successes. Mušikić was part of a Serbian team in 2022 that won a gold medal in the FIBA U20 European Championship.
Money Made: The final major point that the NCAA considers is how much money the player made during their professional years. With Mušikić, we don’t know exactly what his salary was in the Serbian KLS and the ABA League. Mušikić and his team must prove that he did not make money above his necessary expenses while playing as a pro.
Why Do We Want Him?
As most people know, Bill Self & Co. were looking for another center to support Paul Mbiya and Keanu Dawes while Christian Reeves recovers from a shoulder operation he had during the off-season. Mušikić’s numbers aren’t going to jump off the page at anyone, but the man does have great experience, as well as a strong passing ability, both factors are things Self looks for in a big. If eligibility is granted, he will share the role of back-up-back-up center with freshman Davion Adkins. KU also would then have another 7-footer on the roster which will help in late-game situations with larger teams. Last year, KU couldn’t compete with long, athletic bigs. Adding a 7-foot, 227-pound, agile big would certainly help.
More to come!
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