Lithuanian wing Mantas Rubstavicius has turn out to be the most recent NBA draft prospect to affix the NBL Next Stars program.
The 21-year-old, who’s projected as a second-round choose in ESPN’s 2024 NBA mock draft, has signed with the New Zealand Breakers for subsequent season.
He hopes to observe within the footsteps of RJ Hampton and Ousmane Dieng, who have been each drafted after stints with the Breakers as Next Stars.
Another, Rayan Rupert, is projected to be a first-round choose this 12 months.
“I feel very happy and excited about this great opportunity and I can’t wait to play for the New Zealand Breakers next season,” Rubstavicius stated in a league assertion.
“I know that the Next Stars program has helped a number of young talents.
“It allowed them to disclose themselves on the basketball court docket and enhance.
“Many players from this program went on to the NBA after successful seasons.”
Rubstavicius was the main scorer finally 12 months’s Under-20 European Championships, main Lithuania to the second place, and has represented his nation at senior degree.
The 200cm prospect hopes to take the Breakers one step additional than final season, after they misplaced the grand closing sequence in opposition to the Sydney Kings.
“Goals always have to be highest – to become champions of the league and to improve our game every day,” he stated.
“Personally, I am coming to the NBL to learn, improve and help my team be successful as a group.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
