Predicting UCLA Basketball’s Newcomer Minutes for 2026 Season

UCLA will rely heavily on its newcomers this season, as Mick Cronin and Co. did a great job of bringing in talented players through the transfer portal and beyond. Each of them also has a clear and defined role ahead of the season.

It may take time for some newcomers to hit their groove, however, and their minutes through the year may change drastically. Ahead of this highly anticipated season for UCLA, here’s where I think the numbers may fall for newcomers’ minutes on the court.

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Nikola Kusturica – 30+ MPG

Mar 20, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Mick Cronin reacts in the first half during a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

For a player like Nikola Kusturica, it’s going to be very hard to justify leaving him off the floor for chunks at a time. In just about every game he’ll play this season, he will be one of, if not the most talented players on the floor.

His value doesn’t come from just one aspect either. He’s a do-it-all player for the Bruins who will provide major production on both ends of the court and in just about every aspect. Anything less than 30 minutes a game may invite some serious questions.

Jaylen Petty – 25-30 MPG

Starting shooting guard Jaylen Petty will also have a major role for UCLA this season. Unlike Kusturica, Petty’s game is more tailored toward one end of the court, and he should provide an offensive punch for this Bruins team.

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Petty’s main point of attack will be beyond the three-point line, as he is one of the best shooters on the roster. He also provides value by being able to handle ball-carrying duties at the point guard position whenever Trent Perry needs a break.

Auburn Tigers forward Filip Jovi (38) dunks the ball as Auburn Tigers take on Jackson State Tigers at Neville Arena in Auburn, Ala. on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. Auburn Tigers defeated Jackson State Tigers 112-66. | USA TODAY…

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Publish date : 2026-10-30 11:00:00

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