Episode
SLOW START: Nikola Kusturica’s TOUGH Year One PROJECTION For UCLA?! 2028 NBA Lottery Pick?!
- Published
- Aug 18, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2127
- Processing state
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- https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-ucla/
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Summary
UCLA Bruins shake up expectations as Nikola Kusturica, the highly touted Serbian freshman, faces a steep learning curve in his first season. Can the international phenom become an All-American by year two, or will the physical Big Ten grind delay his ascension? Zach Anderson-Yoxsimer and NCAA D1 scouting anaylst & NBA Draft Analyst Ersin Demir dive into Kusturica’s strengths, weaknesses, and the impact of European recruiting on Mick Cronin’s roster construction. Key discussion points include Xavier Booker’s potential breakout, Gunars Grinvalds’ role as a Latvian sharp-shooter, and whether Bruin toughness measures up to Cronin’s notorious “nastiest vodka-drinking Eastern European” standard. The episode explores UCLA’s competitive edge in international scouting, the ongoing debate over local versus global talent, and the must-win stakes for Cronin in a wide-open Big Ten Conference. Will this new Bruin roster finally deliver deep March success—and is Cronin the right coach to guide them? Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOUCLA?sid=YouTube Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege FOLLOW THE SHOW: Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHI For a limited time, Download the Kalshi app and use code [LOCKEDON] to get $10 when you trade $10. . The Game Don't miss this chance to celebrate 40 years of The Game with 40% off your entire order. Visit https://TheGameCaps.com and use promo code LOCKEDON at checkout. 5-Hour ENERGY Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first p…