Lubbock, Texas-based Maverick Bancshares will expand in the western part of the state by acquiring Sandhills Bancshares early next year. .Maverick Bancshares is the parent company of Maverick Bank, and Sandhills Bancshares is the parent company of $225 million, Monahans, Texas-based Tejas Bank. The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of next year. The combined bank is expected to have $650 million in pro forma assets and a footprint across West Texas. The acquisition is expected to allow Tejas Bank customers to access better digital tools, treasury loan services and have increased lending capacity. “This isn’t just an expansion. It’s about strengthening our presence in the region we call home,” said Maverick Bank CEO Brent Leslie. “Tejas Bank is a strong, highly respected institution. Their values align perfectly with ours. Authenticity, relationships and a blue-collar mentality that puts people first.”Todd Hunt is expected to continue to lead the Monahans market as president following the merger, with both Hunt and Kent McDaniel, chair of both Tejas Bank and Sandhills Bancshares, joining the Maverick Bank board of directors.