COMMITMENT! Elsa Vadfors has committed to play women’s basketball for the University of Kentucky!

In a significant development for the University of Kentucky women’s basketball program, Swedish forward Elsa Vadfors has committed to join the Wildcats. At 6-foot-5, Vadfors brings both height and international experience, enhancing Kentucky’s frontcourt depth for the upcoming 2025–26 season.

Vadfors hails from Uppsala, Sweden, where she currently plays for Uppsala Basket. Her basketball journey has been marked by notable achievements, including representing Sweden in the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket. During the tournament, she averaged 1.7 points and 2.8 rebounds per game, showcasing her potential on the international stage.

Kentucky’s head coach, Kenny Brooks, has been actively expanding the program’s international recruiting efforts. Vadfors’s commitment signifies a strategic move to bolster the team’s frontcourt, especially following the departure of 6-foot-7 center Clara Silva, who entered the transfer portal earlier this offseason.

• Size and Versatility: Standing at 6-foot-5, Vadfors adds significant height to Kentucky’s roster, complementing the team’s existing post players.
• International Experience: Her participation in the FIBA U18 EuroBasket provides her with a competitive edge and a global perspective on the game.
• Defensive Presence: Vadfors’s rebounding capabilities and shot-blocking potential will strengthen Kentucky’s defensive strategies.

Elsa Vadfors shared her excitement about joining the Wildcats through a tweet:

“I’m so happy to announce that I’ve committed to the University of Kentucky! Thank you to Coach Brooks and the entire Kentucky coaching staff for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. Go Wildcats!”

This announcement underscores her enthusiasm and gratitude towards the coaching staff and the opportunity to be part of the Kentucky program.

With Vadfors’s commitment, Kentucky’s 2025–26 roster is shaping up to be more formidable. Her addition not only fills a crucial position but also aligns with the program’s broader strategy of integrating international talent to enhance competitiveness. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how Vadfors integrates into the Wildcats’ system and contributes to their aspirations in collegiate women’s basketball.