From Lacrosse to Hoops: Cole Kastner’s Unconventional Journey

Cole Kastner, a two-year captain and four-year regular on the Virginia Cavaliers’ defense, has made the surprising decision to trade in his lacrosse stick for a basketball. The 6-foot-7 athlete will use his final season of athletic eligibility to play basketball at Stanford University.

Stanford University, a new chapter for Cole Kastner

Kastner’s decision may come as a shock to many, but the Palo Alto, California native has always had a passion for basketball. In high school, he was a three-year starter and earned second-team All-State honors, averaging 17 points and 10 rebounds a game as a senior.

“I just want to try to get those conversations going with schools that recruited me, and Pac-12 schools, and UVa as well. Just see if I can make a childhood dream come true.” - Cole Kastner

Kastner’s journey is not unprecedented. Pat Spencer, a former Loyola lacrosse player, won the Tewaaraton Trophy in 2019 and then played basketball at Northwestern before earning a roster spot with the NBA’s Golden State Warriors. Thomas O’Connell, a four-year short-stick defensive midfielder for Maryland, also played basketball at St. John’s.

Cole Kastner, a dominant force on the lacrosse field

As Kastner prepares to take the court at Stanford, he leaves behind a legacy at Virginia. He helped the Cavaliers win the national championship as a freshman and earned second-team USILA All-America honors in 2022 and honorable mention All-America honors last season.

The Virginia Cavaliers, where Cole Kastner made a name for himself in lacrosse

Kastner’s decision to pursue basketball is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. As he embarks on this new chapter, he will undoubtedly bring the same level of passion and commitment that made him a standout on the lacrosse field.

Cole Kastner, ready to take on the basketball court