Varsity basketball seniors Michael Tertsea and Mantvydas ‘Monty’ Urmilevicius have committed to play Division I basketball at the University of Rhode Island and Bryant University respectively.

“It feels really good to be committed [to Bryant],” Urmilevicius said. “I really like the school and I’m proud to be committed there. Now I can give 110 percent of my focus to academics and basketball.”

Tertsea, a center from Nigeria, and Urmilevicius, a power forward from Lithuania, are both players who had offers and interests from other schools. Tertsea had interests from multiple Division I programs and offers including The George Washington University, George Mason University, and La Salle University.

Urmilevicius had offers from Binghamton University, James Madison University, Towson University, and Quinnipiac University.

Tertsea, a three-star recruit according to www.scout.com, is 31 blocks shy of the school record and has averaged 6.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game over his three year career, according to www.baltimoresun.com.

Urmilevicius, a two-star recruit according to www.scout.com, received interest from Bryant when a coach came to JC to watch the basketball team practice in a preseason showcase. Urmilevicius exchanged information with the coach and built a lasting relationship.

For Urmilevicius the commitment doesn’t change much in terms of basketball. “The commitment doesn’t change much,” Urmilevicius said. “I worked [the] whole summer for that, but the commitment gives me more confidence heading into the season.”

Urmilevicius was impressed with Bryant’s campus when he visited. “The campus was very beautiful, it’s really welcoming and clean, everything is organized and compact, also the food places are very nice too. I’m proud to be going to Bryant,” Urmilevicius said.

However, the case is a little different for Tertsea. “My work ethic on the court is going to change for sure because at the next level it is difficult and preparing for that is very important.”

Tertsea and Urmilevicius both head into the upcoming basketball season with high goals. “We as a team are preparing very hard for the season, and I believe every one of us is going to create a positive impact because of the time and sacrifice we have put in to get better,” Tertsea said.

Alex Rasmussen is a Social Media Manager for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.