UTSA's men's basketball program has unveiled a major addition to its roster for the upcoming 2026‑27 season: transfer guard Preston Turner. The announcement, made on Thursday, highlights Turner's blend of size, toughness and shot‑making ability, positioning him as a key piece in the Roadrunners' quest for conference contention.
Background and Career Highlights
Turner arrives after a redshirt junior season at Eastern Illinois where he averaged 7.7 points per game, hit 43 three‑pointers and recorded 25 steals. Prior to that, he spent two seasons at Mineral Area College, posting a 13.7‑point average as a sophomore and helping the Cardinals climb to No. 2 in the national junior‑college rankings during the 2023‑24 campaign.
His high school pedigree is equally impressive. Representing East Carter High School in Ellsinore, Missouri, Turner earned first‑team all‑state honors from the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association and was crowned District Player of the Year. He also excelled in baseball, collecting all‑conference accolades in both sports.
What Turner Brings to San Antonio
Coaches praise Turner's versatility. He can stretch the floor with his shooting, create his own shot off the dribble and defend multiple positions. His defensive instincts, highlighted by a season‑high 25 steals, add a layer of grit that aligns with UTSA's playing identity.
The Roadrunners' coaching staff believes Turner's experience will accelerate the team's development. By pairing his shooting range with the program's defensive schemes, they hope to close the gap on rivals and contend for the conference title in the near future.
Fans can expect Turner to make an immediate impact when he steps onto the court in San Antonio. His arrival underscores the program's strategy of recruiting talent that can contribute across multiple facets of the game.