URI Rams Lock in Star Trio for 2026-27 Basketball Surge

KINGSTON, R.I. — University of Rhode Island men's basketball coach Archie Miller announced the signing of three key recruits for the 2026-27 season on Nov. 19, 2025, each inking a National Letter of Intent with the Rams. The class features 6-9 Lithuanian forward Nedas Raupelis, consensus three-star point guard Jaen Chatman from Blair Academy in New Jersey, and 6-8 wing Tim Martin out of Cincinnati, Ohio. Miller's staff targeted size, skill and versatility to elevate the program at the Ryan Center.

Nedas Raupelis brings international flair with his 6-9 frame, poised to anchor the frontcourt in Kingston. Jaen Chatman, a 6-2 combo guard from New Jersey's Blair Academy, earned three-star status and adds backcourt speed and playmaking. Tim Martin, a 6-8 small forward from Ohio who played with Nova Village club, held offers from Brown University, Miami (Ohio), Kent State and others before committing to URI. "Rhody fans are going to love watching him play," Miller said of Martin.

This recruiting haul comes amid URI's resurgence in the Atlantic 10 Conference, with Miller — in his second year — building depth after portal additions like Tripp, Hinton and Sow spotted at the State House last week. While national rankings place URI outside the elite top tiers dominated by Duke, the Rams' targeted class addresses roster needs for the 2026-27 campaign. Local hoops circles on KeaneyBlue forums hailed the signings as a step toward March Madness relevance.

With Kingston's passionate fanbase and the Rams' history of gritty A-10 battles, these recruits inject fresh talent into a program eyeing deeper NCAA runs. The trio's arrivals position URI to compete with conference powers like Dayton and George Mason.