Oklahoma Adds Russian Big Man Kirill Elatontsev, Who Debuts Just Hours After Signing
In a move that turned heads across college basketball, Oklahoma men’s basketball made a rare midseason splash by signing Russian big man Kirill Elatontsev on Sunday-and by Monday night, he was already suiting up in crimson and white.
The 6-foot-11, 240-pound center wasted no time making his debut, checking into the Sooners’ nonconference finale against Mississippi Valley State. And while the 93-69 win was never in doubt, Elatontsev's presence on the court offered a glimpse into what he could bring to the table as OU heads into the grind of SEC play.
A Midseason Arrival with Immediate Impact
Elatontsev’s arrival comes at a crucial point in the season for the Sooners. With SEC play set to begin against Ole Miss on Saturday, Oklahoma bolstered its frontcourt depth with a player who brings size, skill, and international experience.
“First and foremost, we’re happy Kirill is here-it’s been a process to get to this point,” said head coach Porter Moser. “He gives us depth at the five spot, which is key since the SEC is one of the best rebounding leagues in the country.”
That depth is especially important considering the current state of the Sooners’ frontcourt. Starting center Mohamed Wague (6-foot-10) has been carrying a heavy load, while freshman big man Kai Rogers-also listed at 6-foot-10-is sidelined with an injury. Elatontsev steps in as the tallest player on the roster and immediately adds a physical presence in the paint.
In his NCAA debut, the 23-year-old logged 18 minutes off the bench, scoring six points on 2-of-3 shooting while grabbing four rebounds and dishing out an assist. It wasn’t a flashy stat line, but it was a solid first showing for a player who had just two practices under his belt before stepping onto the floor at Lloyd Noble Center.
From Russia to Norman
Before landing in Norman, Elatontsev spent his entire career playing professionally in Russia. Most recently, he suited up for Lokomotiv Kuban in the VTB United League, the top tier of Russian club basketball. There, he averaged 7.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in just over 20 minutes per game-a stat line that earned him an all-star nod and a spot on the Russian National Team.
That kind of experience is rare for a midseason NCAA addition. Elatontsev isn’t a raw project; he’s a seasoned pro who’s faced high-level competition. And while the transition to the college game comes with its own challenges-new terminology, new systems, and a different pace-his skill set and maturity could make him a valuable contributor down the stretch.
“He’s older and has played against really good competition, which will help us in league play,” Moser said. “He’s skilled and has a really nice touch around the basket.”
Navigating the New Era of College Hoops
Elatontsev’s midyear arrival is part of a growing trend in college basketball, where roster movement no longer follows the traditional offseason script. Whether it’s the transfer portal, NIL, or international additions, the sport is evolving-and coaches are adapting on the fly.
“Really unique. I’ve never had it,” Moser said of adding a player midseason.
“Whether I like it or not is a different story. It’s allowed.
And you either evolve or you fall behind.”
Moser pointed to the early days of NIL as a parallel. Programs that embraced the change early gained an edge.
Now, with midseason additions becoming more common, the same principle applies. If a player is eligible and can help, you find a way to integrate them-quickly.
“We need guidelines or guardrails on a lot of things, yes. But right now, if he’s cleared, you’ve got to evolve,” Moser said.
“He’s cleared. He’s a really good young man.
I can’t believe we were able to throw him in with two practices.”
Looking Ahead
With SEC play looming, the timing of Elatontsev’s debut couldn’t be better. Oklahoma has been one of the more intriguing teams in the country this season, and the addition of a skilled, physically imposing big man could give the Sooners a new dimension-especially in a league known for its physicality and rebounding battles.
It’s still early in Elatontsev’s NCAA journey, but if his first game is any indication, he’s not here just to fill a roster spot. He’s here to contribute. And as Oklahoma gears up for the heart of its schedule, that added depth might just make a difference when it matters most.