Auburn University’s men’s basketball team is gearing up for its first exhibition games in Greece, but the lineup will be missing several key pieces as the squad prepares to face overseas competition.
Guard George Kimble III and forward Owen Freeman are out with a hand injury and a foot problem, respectively, leaving the coaching staff short on backcourt depth and front‑court versatility.
Eligibility hurdles for international recruits
International newcomers Mantas Rubstavicius and Narcisse Ngoy remain unavailable after the NCAA delayed clearance for their eligibility, a setback that underscores the bureaucratic challenges facing foreign players each offseason.
Ngoy, a 7‑footer from France, posted a double‑digit scoring average in the French Elite 2 League, topping the division with 11.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game, while also contributing 10.8 points.
Rubstavicius, a Lithuanian wing, logged 12.4 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists in the EuroCup, experience that could have added depth to the Tigers’ perimeter.
The situation is not unique to Auburn; Arkansas and Texas A&M have also seen recent signees sidelined under similar circumstances, reflecting a broader pattern across several programs.
Despite the setbacks, Ngoy has reiterated his commitment to the university after being drafted by an NBA team, leaving the program hopeful that the clearance process will be resolved before the regular season begins.
Coaches are now turning their attention to the available roster pieces, emphasizing development of the current players while awaiting the green light for their newest international acquisitions.