Texas Longhorns Men’s Basketball Team’s Strategic Overhaul: Five Transfer Portal Additions to Reinforce 2025–26 Roster
The Texas Longhorns men’s basketball team is undergoing a significant transformation as they prepare for the 2025–26 season. Under the leadership of new head coach Sean Miller, the program has made strategic moves to bolster its roster, securing commitments from five players through the transfer portal. These additions are pivotal in reshaping the team and positioning Texas for a competitive season ahead.(SI)
One of the standout additions is Dailyn Swain, a 6-foot-8 forward from Xavier University. Swain brings versatility and experience to the Longhorns, having started 33 of 34 games for the Musketeers in the previous season. He averaged 11.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, showcasing his all-around capabilities. Notably, Swain delivered a career-high 27 points in a game against Illinois, demonstrating his scoring prowess. His decision to follow Coach Miller to Texas underscores the trust and confidence he has in the program’s direction.
Lassina Traore, a 6-foot-10 forward from Xavier, is another significant addition. Known for his exceptional rebounding skills, Traore averaged 10.3 rebounds per game in his previous season at Long Beach State, ranking among the nation’s top rebounders. Although he missed the entire 2024–25 season due to a knee injury, his potential to address Texas’ rebounding deficiencies is promising. His presence in the paint will be crucial for the Longhorns as they aim to strengthen their interior play.
Matas Vokietaitis, a 7-foot center from Florida Atlantic University, adds depth to Texas’ frontcourt. As the American Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year, Vokietaitis averaged 10.2 points and 5.2 rebounds per game, demonstrating his scoring and rebounding abilities. His impressive performance, including multiple double-digit scoring games, highlights his readiness to contribute at the collegiate level. Vokietaitis’ addition provides the Longhorns with a promising young talent to develop and integrate into their system.
Camden Heide, a 6-foot-7 forward from Purdue University, brings valuable experience to Texas. He started eight of 36 games for the Boilermakers, averaging 4.7 points and 3.6 rebounds per game. Notably, Heide showcased his clutch performance in the Sweet 16 against Houston, hitting critical three-pointers that nearly sent the game into overtime. His ability to perform under pressure and contribute in pivotal moments will be an asset to the Longhorns as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
Simeon Wilcher, a 6-foot-4 guard from St. John’s University, adds defensive strength to Texas’ backcourt. Averaging eight points per game, Wilcher’s primary contribution lies in his defensive capabilities. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and provide perimeter defense will be instrumental in Texas’ defensive schemes. Wilcher’s addition complements the team’s existing guards and enhances their overall defensive unit.
Jordan Pope, a 6-foot-2 guard, returns to Texas after transferring from Oregon State. In his debut season with the Longhorns, Pope made an immediate impact, including a career-high 42-point game against New Orleans. His scoring ability and experience provide a steady presence in the backcourt. Pope’s familiarity with the program and his offensive skills are valuable assets as Texas seeks to build on its previous season’s performance.
Tramon Mark, a 6-foot-6 guard from Arkansas, brings veteran experience to Texas’ backcourt. His leadership and experience in high-pressure situations will be crucial for the Longhorns as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season. Mark’s addition strengthens the team’s guard rotation and provides depth in the backcourt.
Chendall Weaver, a 6-foot-3 guard, returns to Texas, adding depth to the backcourt. Known for his playmaking abilities, Weaver’s presence enhances the team’s guard rotation. His ability to facilitate the offense and contribute defensively will be valuable assets as Texas aims to compete at a high level in the upcoming season.
Nic Codie, a forward, is another returning player who adds depth to Texas’ frontcourt. Known for his defensive capabilities, Codie’s presence provides the Longhorns with additional options in the post. His ability to contribute defensively and on the boards will be important as Texas looks to strengthen its interior play.
Arthur Kaluma, a 6-foot-7 forward from Kansas State, is a significant addition to Texas’ frontcourt. Averaging 14.4 points and 7.0 rebounds per game in the previous season, Kaluma brings scoring and rebounding abilities to the team. His experience and skills will be valuable assets as Texas seeks to enhance its frontcourt presence.
