Men's Basketball | 11/11/2026 12:56:00 PM

November 11, 2026-Emporia State opens this basketball season on Friday in St. Joseph, Mo. but coach Tom Billeter and his staff are continuing to load for the future.  Nedas and Nojus Venckus from Lockport Township HS in Illinois will be attending Emporia State next year and playing basketball for the Hornets. 
 
"We were extremely fortunate to not only sign one Venckus…but two," said Billeter. "While Nojus and Nedas share many similarities in how hard and smart they play, each brings their own unique strengths and abilities to our team."
 
The brother duo helped lead Lockport Township HS to a 27-6 record and a regional title in Illinois Class 4A.
 
Nedas Venckus | 6-3| Guard | Lockport, Ill. | Lockport Township HS
Nedas shot 44% from the three-point line and averaged 20 points, five rebounds and three assists per game.
Billeter says - "Nedas is a well-coached, dynamic, and explosive wing with the ability to score from all three levels on the floor. During his junior season, he earned All-State honors while averaging 20 points per game and shooting 44% from three, establishing himself as one of the area's top scoring guards. Nedas is a great fit for our program!"

Nojus Venckus | 6-3| Guard | Lockport, Ill. | Lockport Township HS
Nojus shot 47% from beyond the three-point arc while averaging 16 points, six rebounds and four assists per game. 
Billeter says - "Nojus was also an All-State guard during his junior season at Lockport Township HS, which competes in Illinois' largest classification. He is an outstanding defender and an excellent scorer, shooting 47% from three while averaging over five rebounds per game. Another great addition to our young Emporia State team!"
 
The Hornets currently have seven freshman, five sophomores, a junior and two seniors on this year's squad.
 
"We are excited to welcome both of these tough-nosed players and know the Emporia community will enjoy getting to know them as well," said Billeter.
 
The Hornets open the 2026-27 season on Friday against Minnesota-Duluth as part of the Hillayard Classic in St. Joseph, Mo.  Tip-off is set for 5:00 p.m. at the MWSU Fieldhouse.