Lithuanian wing Mantas Rubstavicius has become the latest NBA draft prospect to join the NBL Next Stars program.
The 21-year-old, who is projected as a second-round pick in ESPN's 2024 NBA mock draft, has signed with the New Zealand Breakers for next season.
He hopes to follow in the footsteps of RJ Hampton and Ousmane Dieng, who were both drafted after stints with the Breakers as Next Stars.
Another, Rayan Rupert, is projected to be a first-round pick this year.
"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 said in a league statement.
"I know that the Next Stars program has helped a number of young talents.
"It allowed them to reveal themselves on the basketball court and improve.
"Many players from this program went on to the NBA after successful seasons."
Rubstavicius was the leading scorer at last year's Under-20 European Championships, leading Lithuania to the second place, and has represented his country at senior level.
The 200cm prospect hopes to take the Breakers one step further than last season, when they lost the grand final series against the Sydney Kings.
"Goals always have to be highest - to become champions of the league and to improve our game every day," he said.
"Personally, I am coming to the NBL to learn, improve and help my team be successful as a group."
