Stanford Welcomes Cole Kastner: A Dual-Sport Sensation
In a surprising turn of events, Stanford’s men’s basketball team has announced the addition of Cole Kastner, a talented athlete known for his prowess in collegiate lacrosse. This season, Kastner will take his talents from the lacrosse field to the hardwood court, making waves as the program’s fifth transfer acquisition of the offseason.
Both sports demand sharp skills and dedication.
A Local Legend Turns Cardinal
Kastner, hailing from nearby Menlo, has always been a fan of the Cardinal. His connections to the school run deep, and he aims to bring his competitive edge to a basketball team that is eager for fresh talent. According to Kyle Smith, the Anne and Tony Joseph Director of Men’s Basketball, “Cole is a local kid from Menlo who grew up rooting for the Card. He is a tremendous athlete that will bring an enthusiastic spirit to practice every day.”
Lacrosse Achievements
Though he has not played competitive basketball in several years, Kastner’s athletic background is impressive, particularly during his time at Virginia. He garnered recognition as a two-time USILA second team All-American and received honorable mention All-American honors in 2023. His accolades don’t stop there; he was also a nominee for the prestigious Tewaaraton Award in both 2022 and 2024, acknowledging him as one of the top players nationwide in college lacrosse.
“We are thrilled for Cole to bring his winning ways back to the Farm,” Smith stated.
His experience extends beyond individual awards; Kastner played a critical role in leading Virginia to an NCAA Championship in 2021. Even in lacrosse, his statistics are noteworthy, tallying four goals, two assists, and an impressive 119 ground balls, which ranks third all-time in the program’s history.
Talent knows no boundaries.
Transitions from Lacrosse to Basketball
The shift from lacrosse to basketball is not unprecedented. Kastner joins a short list of athletes who have successfully crossed disciplines, echoing the journey of the Golden State Warriors’ guard Pat Spencer. Spencer’s stint in lacrosse at Loyola (MD) before switching to basketball at Northwestern serves as a testament to the potential success athletes can have when they switch sports.
Kastner’s basketball roots trace back to his time at Menlo School, where he was a standout player. During his senior year, he averaged 17 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists per game, earning him a spot on the all-state second team as a forward. His experience on the court sets the stage for a promising future in basketball, one that Stanford hopes will positively impact their upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
As Stanford gears up for the 2024-25 season, all eyes will be on Kastner as he looks to blend his lacrosse success into a new chapter in basketball. His athleticism, championship experience, and leadership qualities will surely benefit the Cardinal as they navigate a competitive landscape. With such a dynamic addition to the roster, Stanford basketball fans have much to be excited about this season!
Expectations are high with fresh talent.
