Porter Moser and the Oklahoma Sooners just got a little bigger-and potentially a lot tougher-as they prepare to dive into SEC play. On Sunday evening, the program officially announced the addition of Russian big man Kirill Elatontsev, a 6-foot-11 forward-center who brings size, skill, and international experience to Norman. He’s immediately eligible and will suit up for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.
This isn’t just a depth move-it’s a strategic reinforcement at a crucial moment. With SEC play looming and the Sooners already off to a solid 9-3 start, adding a seasoned post presence like Elatontsev could be a difference-maker in a league known for its physicality and rebounding battles.
“First and foremost, we’re happy Kirill is here-it’s been a process to get to this point,” Moser said in a statement. “He gives us depth at the five-spot, which is key since the SEC is one of the best rebounding leagues in the country.
He’s older and has played against really good competition, which will also help us in league play. And he’s skilled and has a really nice touch around the basket.”
That’s not just coach-speak. Elatontsev arrives with a resume that suggests he can contribute right away.
At 6’11”, 240 pounds, he’s not just a paint-filler-he’s a two-time VTB United League Best Young Player and a proven performer in one of Europe’s top pro circuits. He’s spent nearly a decade developing in the Lokomotiv Kuban system in Russia, rising through the ranks since joining the club’s academy in 2016.
Most recently, he averaged 7.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game in 20.2 minutes for Lokomotiv’s senior team, shooting an efficient 62.2% from the field and even knocking down 53.3% of his limited three-point attempts.
That blend of efficiency and versatility is what makes Elatontsev intriguing. He’s not just a rim protector or a back-to-the-basket big-he’s a modern center who can stretch the floor in spots, finish around the rim, and hold his own defensively. And at 23 years old, he brings a level of maturity and polish you don’t always get from midseason additions.
Elatontsev is expected to make his debut Monday night when the Sooners host Mississippi Valley State in their final nonconference matchup at the Lloyd Noble Center. It’s a soft launch before the real test begins: SEC play opens Saturday at home against Ole Miss. That gives the Sooners just enough time to get their new big man acclimated to the system, terminology, and tempo of the college game.
He’ll wear No. 15 for Oklahoma and fills the team’s final open roster spot-a move that could pay dividends as the Sooners gear up for the grind of conference play.
Looking back at his time in Russia, Elatontsev’s development has been steady and impressive. His breakout year came in 2022-23 with Lokomotiv Kuban-2, where he averaged 14.1 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game.
He’s a two-time VTB United Youth League gold medalist (2022, 2023), with silver medals in 2020 and 2021. He’s also racked up individual accolades, including regular-season MVP in 2021, Final Four MVP in 2023, and an all-star selection in the most recent season.
And let’s not overlook the international experience: Elatontsev was called up to the Russian National Team in February 2024, a nod to his growing reputation on the global stage.
For Oklahoma, the timing couldn’t be better. The SEC is loaded with size and talent in the frontcourt, and the Sooners now have another weapon to throw into the mix. If Elatontsev can translate his pro experience to the college game quickly, he could give Oklahoma a real edge-not just in terms of depth, but in matchups that often come down to who controls the paint.
Bottom line: This is a savvy midseason pickup for a team with big aspirations. The Sooners just got bigger, and potentially a lot better.