MANKATO, Minn. --- Former Minnesota State forward Assem Marei became the third Maverick this offseason to sign free agent contract with a team in Europe as he signed with BC Siauliai out of Lithuania.

Marei joins former Mavericks Connor Miller and Zach Monaghan who have signed free agent contracts this offseason. Miller signed with Malbas Oresund in Sweden, while Monaghan joined Leyma Basquet Coruna in Spain.

A 6-9 forward from Cairo, Egypt, Marei started in 97 games for the Mavericks during the last three seasons as he finished his career sixth all-time in scoring (1,600), second in blocks (161), second in field goal percentage (59.1%) and seventh rebounds (787) at Minnesota State.

During his sophomore season, Marei claimed All-NSIC Second Team honors, and followed up with All-NSIC First Team accolades as a junior and senior. He also received all-region honors from both Daktronics and the NABC. 

During the summer of 2013, Marei also competed in the FIBA African Championships as a member of the Egyptian National Team. He helped guide his team to a second-place finish as he averaged 14.6 points and 11.6 rebounds per game. He finished as the top rebounder in the tournament as he received all-tournament honors.

Minnesota State opens its season on the road as it travels to Joplin, Mo., to take part in the MIAA/NSIC Challenge beginning Friday, Nov. 13, against Pittsburg State.

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