A EuroBasket title, Olympic games, and now… K-State awaits

She’s played in the Olympics. She’s a EuroBasket champ. She was drafted into the WNBA.

Now, Belgian forward Nastja Claessens is heading to Kansas State.

Wildcats head coach Jeff Mittie announced the addition of Claessens to the 2025–26 roster, bringing international experience and versatility to a program looking to build on last season’s momentum.

Claessens helped lead Belgium to the 2025 FIBA Women’s EuroBasket title in June.

In six games, she averaged 5.2 points on 52.9% shooting, including 42.9% from deep, while adding 1.8 rebounds per game.

Her ability to score efficiently and defend multiple positions makes her a valuable addition to K-State’s rotation.

In April 2024, Claessens was selected 30th overall in the WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics. As an international player, she was automatically eligible during the year of her 20th birthday.

Instead of signing professionally, she chose to take her talents to the NCAA, opting to develop her game while pursuing a college education in the U.S.

She also brings Olympic experience to Manhattan. Claessens suited up for Belgium during the 2024 Paris Olympics, appearing in two games. She was also a key contributor in the team’s qualifying campaign earlier that year.

K-State returns junior guard Taryn Sides and adds four significant transfers — Izela Arenas (UCLA), Jenessa Cotton (Texas A&M), Tess Heal (Santa Clara), and Ramiya White (Louisville).

The incoming freshman class includes Aniya Foy, Gina Garcia, Brandie Harrod, and Jordan Speiser, adding depth across multiple positions.

The Wildcats are coming off a strong 2024–25 season, finishing 13–5 in Big 12 play and going 17–1 at home. They reached the Sweet 16 before falling to USC, 67–61.

With a blend of international experience and fresh talent, K-State looks poised to make a deep run next season.