SAN MARCOS, Texas – Tuongthach Gatkek, a 6-9 forward who played for Florida last season, will join Texas State men's basketball as a transfer starting with the 2022-23 campaign, head coach Terrence Johnson announced.
 
A rising junior, Gatkek (pronounced TOON-sike GAT-kek) played in 21 games for the Gators in 2021-22 and averaged 1.7 points and 1.8 rebounds while playing valuable minutes off the bench. It was his first year with Florida after transferring from Trinity Valley Community College (TX).
 
"We're super excited to have Tuon joining us," said Johnson. "Tuon will have an instant impact on our program; his versatile skill set, length and athleticism will bring great value to our team. Tuon's infectious energy and playmaking ability at his size will cause match-up problems for opponents. I'm looking forward to helping him tap into his limitless potential as a student athlete and person."
 
In his one season with Trinity Valley, Gatkek was named all-region after helping the team to a 22-3 record and an appearance in the NJCAA Men's Basketball Championship tournament. He averaged 9.7 points on 66.3 percent field goal shooting as well as 6.9 rebounds and 2.2 blocks. His field goal shooting (15th) and blocks (23rd) were among the nation's leaders.
 
Originally from Portland, Maine, Gatkek played high school basketball for Caprock High School in Amarillo, Texas.
 
Gatkek, who goes by Tuon (Toon), is the second transfer for the Bobcats this offseason. He will join returners from last year's Sun Belt regular season championship team as well as the class of high school signees.