Oregon forward Oleksandr Kobzystyi adds weight, looking forward to 2025-26

SEATTLE — Oleksandr Kobzystyi was a late addition to Oregon’s roster this season and hopes to take a bigger role in 2025-26.

Kobzystyi, who goes by Sasha, appeared in just two games for a total of eight minutes for the Ducks this season. The 6-foot-7 forward had to sit out six games due to his past play in Europe and a few others due to ailments.

This season was largely about developing for Kobzystyi, who said he’s gained a significant strength and aims to put it to use next season.

“I think this year was really hard for me but I definitely got better,” Kobzystyi said. “I definitely worked on my body; I gained 30 pounds. I was 180, now I’m 210-211. I was trying to adapt to the game. It’s different form European basketball. Getting used to everything, new country, new culture, new teammates, new everything.

“It’s a more physical game. That’s why I gained 30 pounds. I was lifting more. I feel more confident now and more tougher on the court, can take those bumps, hits.”

Kobzystyi sees himself as a small forward and said he would matchup against TJ Bamba and Jadrian Tracey, who are each 6-foot-5, in practice.

“When I got here it was pretty hard for me because it was a big difference where (Tracey)’s bigger than me, stronger than me,” Kobzystyi said. “But I’m taller than they are so I need to use that length. Now I’m stronger too so it’s easier for me to guard them or to play against them in general.”

Kobzystyi has at least one year of eligibility remaining and it’s unclear whether he’ll be able to utilize a redshirt for this season.

He is one of four UO players to state their intent to return next season, along with Tracey, Jamari Phillips and Dezdrick Lindsay.