Sean Miller didn’t hold back when asked about the two freshmen who could quickly become the faces of Texas basketball’s next wave.
Austin Goosby and Marcus Spears Jr. arrived in Austin as headliners of a recruiting class that ranked No. 5 in 2026, and both are already drawing major attention before playing a college game. Spears, a five-star power forward who reclassified from 2027, and Goosby, a five-star small forward, are among 11 new players on the roster as Miller reshapes the Longhorns for 2026-27.
Spears, in particular, has left a strong impression on his coach.
"Looking at his talent, his ceiling, he might have the highest ceiling of anybody in our program. His talent level jumps off the charts… Being as young as he is, I can’t believe how bright he is in terms of learning on the court," Miller said of Spears, comparing him to a sponge at practices.
Goosby has earned his own share of praise, with Miller describing a player who brings energy without needing to dominate the room.
"He’s a super fun guy to coach. When he walks into the gym, he raises the level of his teammates.
He’s like a silent assassin. He doesn’t say a lot, but I think his actions really lead by example," Miller said of Goosby.
Miller also made it clear that Spears is not being viewed as a long-term project who will sit quietly and wait his turn. The freshman is expected to matter right away.
"He’s not just somebody who’s here to develop this year; he will impact our team, he will impact our team," Miller said about Spears. "He is just going to get better and better… when you see him in January or February, he won’t be the same basketball player."
Texas brought in six true freshmen and five transfer portal additions as part of the new-look roster. Along with Spears and Goosby, the freshman group includes four-star prospects Bo Ogden and Joe Sterling, plus Mantas Laurencikas and Coleman Elkins.
The transfer haul features four-star players David Punch, Isaiah Johnson, Elyjah Freeman, Amari Evans and Mikey Lewis, giving Miller a mix of youth and experience to work with.
Miller also pointed to the holdovers who kept their spots after limited roles a season ago, including John Clark, Lewis Obiorah and Anthon McDermott. He credited them for staying committed to their development on and off the court.
He gave similar recognition to Matas Vokietaitis, who began last season as a bench player before becoming a key piece in Texas’s run to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament.
For now, the spotlight belongs to Goosby and Spears, and Miller believes both freshmen bring more than talent. He sees two players who are grounded, driven and ready to grow.
"I think what you’re gonna find is that these are two hard-working, humble, really bright people on and off the court," Miller said.
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