Longhorns land Former Xavier forward Lassina Traore

The Texas Longhorns men’s basketball program has made a significant addition to its roster by acquiring forward Lassina Traore, a standout player with a proven track record in collegiate basketball. Traore’s journey through various programs and his consistent performance make him a valuable asset to the Longhorns as they aim for a competitive edge in the upcoming season.​

Early Career and Development

Hailing from Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Lassina Traore began his basketball journey at Victory Rock Prep in Bradenton, Florida. His early exposure to competitive basketball in the United States set the foundation for his collegiate career. Traore’s initial foray into college basketball was with Saint Louis University during the 2021-22 season, where he appeared in 19 games, averaging 2.4 points and 2.9 rebounds per game.

Breakout at Long Beach State

Seeking more significant opportunities, Traore transferred to Long Beach State University for the 2022-23 season. His impact was immediate and profound. Traore averaged a double-double with 12.9 points and 10.6 rebounds per game, leading the Big West Conference in rebounding. His performance earned him the Big West Newcomer of the Year and First Team All-Big West honors. Notably, he tied the school’s single-season record with 17 double-doubles and became the first Long Beach State player in 40 years to record a 20-point, 20-rebound game. ​

Transition to Xavier and Setback

Traore’s success at Long Beach State caught the attention of Xavier University, leading to his transfer for the 2024-25 season. Unfortunately, during a preseason practice, Traore suffered a season-ending knee injury. Xavier’s head coach, Sean Miller, expressed his disappointment, highlighting Traore’s potential as a starter and his contributions during the offseason. ​

Redemption with Texas Longhorns

Now, Traore is set to bring his talents to the Texas Longhorns. Standing at 6-foot-10 and weighing 245 pounds, his physical presence and experience are expected to bolster Texas’s frontcourt. Traore’s journey through adversity and his proven ability to perform at a high level position him as a key contributor for the Longhorns in the upcoming season.​

Lassina Traore’s addition to the Texas Longhorns signifies a strategic move to enhance the team’s competitiveness. His resilience, experience, and skill set are anticipated to make a significant impact as Texas aims for success in the forthcoming basketball season.