Auburn basketball is making waves on the international stage. According to a report from Draft Express, the Tigers have secured a commitment from Mantas Rubštavičius, a 6-foot-6 wing from Lithuania, for the 2026-27 season. This move, reportedly spearheaded by assistant coach Steven Pearl, could be the team's final offseason addition—and it's a big one.
At 24 years old, Rubštavičius brings a wealth of professional experience to the hardwood. Since 2018, he's played for four different teams across two leagues, honing his skills against top-tier competition. He even tested the NBA waters during the 2024 draft process, going undrafted but earning a spot on the Golden State Warriors' summer league roster.
His most impressive season came after that draft, when he returned to his Lithuanian club, Lietkabelis Panevėžys, for a third stint. In EuroCup play, Rubštavičius averaged 12.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, with four performances of 15 or more points—including two 20-point outbursts. That kind of scoring punch and versatility could make him a valuable asset for the Tigers, especially as they look to build depth on the wing.
Standing at 6-foot-6, Rubštavičius is known for his length and ability to create his own shot, skills that should translate well to the college game. For Auburn fans, this international addition signals a continued commitment to finding talent from all corners of the globe. As the 2026-27 season approaches, all eyes will be on how this Lithuanian wing adapts to the SEC and makes his mark in the orange and blue.
