Mantas Laurencikas, a 6‑foot‑7 guard from Kaunas, Lithuania, has officially signed an athletic scholarship to join the Texas Longhorns for the 2026‑27 season. The university’s athletics office announced the agreement on Thursday, highlighting the player’s blend of size, shooting and playmaking that aligns with head coach Chris Beard’s vision.
A Lithuanian Journey to Austin
Currently playing for AS Monaco Basket in France’s Betclic Elite, Laurencikas has posted a career‑high 13.0 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game this season. His four‑year stint with Zalgiris in the Lithuanian Basketball League honed his defensive instincts and gave him a platform to compete in EuroLeague qualifiers.
Before arriving in Austin, he contributed to Lithuania’s youth national program, capturing a silver medal at the 2025 FIBA U20 EuroBasket in Heraklion and representing the country at the 2024 U18 EuroBasket and the 2023 European Championship.
What the Longhorns Expect
Coaches anticipate that his versatility will add depth to the backcourt, offering a reliable outside threat and a secondary playmaker who can create opportunities for teammates. The addition is seen as a strategic move to strengthen recruiting pipelines in Europe.
International Pedigree
Laurencikas’ international résumé also includes a bronze‑medal performance at the 2022 FIBA U16 European Championship, underscoring a consistent track record of success on the world stage.
The signing reflects Texas’s expanding global footprint in basketball recruiting, and fans will watch closely as the Lithuanian guard looks to translate his European experience into Big 12 competition.