Gytis Nemeiksa, also known as “Nemo”, is poised to make a significant impact on the basketball world as he prepares to join the University of Hawaii basketball team in the upcoming week. Standing at an impressive height of 6-foot-8 and weighing 220 pounds, this power forward hailing from Lithuania has accepted a scholarship offer and is scheduled to commence training with the Rainbow Warriors.
Nemeiksa, who recently concluded a season with Xavier, was drawn to Hawaii by the pleasant climate, the amiable locals, and the strong sense of camaraderie within the basketball team. He expressed his enthusiasm about becoming a member of the Rainbow Warriors, underscoring the fact that the entire Hawaii staff had made him feel genuinely appreciated during the recruitment process.
During his tenure at Xavier, Nemeiksa participated in 34 games, with 20 of them as a starter. He exhibited versatility by also serving as the sixth man and maintained an average of 5.2 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. His talent was evident in matches against formidable opponents such as Providence and UConn, where he showcased his scoring ability and prowess in rebounding.
Esteemed basketball expert Jon Chepkevich, who evaluates international prospects for DraftExpress, commended Nemeiksa for his shooting prowess, capability to drive into the paint, and willingness to contribute to the nitty-gritty work required for victories. This is further evidenced by Nemeiksa’s exceptional performance while playing for Zalgiris Kaunas II club, where he led the team to the 2023 NKL championship and was named the 2023 Final Four’s most valuable player.
Undergoing a significant growth spurt at the age of 17, Nemeiksa honed additional ball-handling and outside-shooting skills, successfully transitioning from an undersized wing to a multifaceted power forward. His decision to transfer to the NCAA from Vytautus Magnus University in Lithuania was driven by a desire to experience high-level competition, and despite his positive experience at Xavier, he remains optimistic about the expanded playing time that the Rainbow Warriors can offer.
His recruitment comes at a pivotal juncture for the Rainbow Warriors as they seek to address the openings left by departing players and fortify the team’s roster. The recent signings of other promising athletes such as Tanner Christensen and Marcus Greene indicate that the team is preparing for a remarkable season ahead.
Nemeiksa’s inclusion is anticipated to infuse a new dynamic into the University of Hawaii basketball program, and his potential impact on the squad is eagerly awaited. With a strong support system and the warm hospitality of the Aloha spirit awaiting him in Hawaii, Nemeiksa is poised to embark on an exciting new chapter in his basketball journey.