Oregon State's women's basketball program has made its first offseason acquisition by securing Mariia Ignatchenko, a 6‑foot‑4 forward who transferred from Salt Lake Community College and South Georgia Tech Junior College. The move marks a significant step for the Beavers as they look to bolster their frontcourt ahead of the upcoming campaign.
A Promising Addition
Head coach Scott Rueck highlighted Ignatchenko's impact around the basket, noting her high ceiling in the post and the versatility she brings to the lineup. Rueck emphasized that her size and skill set align perfectly with the team's tactical goals, offering a new dimension both offensively and defensively.
Ignatchenko arrives after a season in which she averaged 4.4 points and 3.7 rebounds, numbers that modestly reflect her development but belie the progress she made in the latter half of the year. In the 2024‑25 season she stepped up, starting 31 games and posting 7.7 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, underscoring her growing role within the team.
Beyond the numbers, Ignatchenko expressed genuine excitement about joining the Beavers, citing the program's atmosphere and the academic opportunities at Oregon State as key factors in her decision. Representing Ukraine at the 2022 FIBA U18 and 2023 U20 European Championships, she brings an international pedigree that enriches the team's cultural fabric.
The Beavers' roster now features eight returning players alongside four freshmen signees, creating a blend of experience and new talent. Ignatchenko's addition is expected to complement this mix, providing depth and a defensive anchor as the team aims to climb higher in the conference standings.