PULLMAN, Wash. – Graduate transfer Max Baloun brings championship experience and a strong work ethic to Washington State Cougar Football for the 2025 season. After a successful five seasons at South Dakota State, where he contributed to back-to-back FCS national championships, Baloun is ready to make an impact in his final collegiate season as a Cougar.

Baloun is currently pursuing a master's degree in strategic communication after earning his undergraduate degree in advertising. He brings leadership, toughness, and a championship mindset to the Cougars' defensive line. With his experience and presence, he's a strong addition to the team, one that Cougar fans will enjoy watching this fall.

Why did you choose WSU for your final season?

It was really a combination of the coaching staff coming here, the facilities, and the community.

How has your experience in Pullman been so far?

It's been awesome. The facilities here are great, and the town has a great feel. The community is welcoming, and it's been really fun.

Favorite Pullman Restaurant?

I've been going to Zoe's lately. That's a great spot so far.

What has been the biggest adjustment from FCS to FBS?

The competition level is definitely higher. Competing against guys who have been at this level longer pushes me to get better every day. It's a good challenge.

Favorite football memory at South Dakota State?

There are so many, but the locker room moments and off-field memories with teammates stand out the most. Every year brought a great group of guys.

How has the transition from SDSU been so far?

It's been great and a really easy transition. Having my roommates from South Dakota come her as well made the transition smooth.

How did being part of a championship program shape you?

It has had such a huge impact. Knowing what it takes to win a championship and the work you need to put in day in and day out. Overall, the importance of coming together as a team and all buying into it.

Pregame music preferences?

I listen to anything that gets me pumped up. I'm into oldies like Eminem and really any pop music to lighten the mood.

Go-to pregame and postgame meals?

Pre-game, spaghetti has become a go-to. Postgame, I usually just have a Gatorade and a couple of snacks. It's pretty hard for me to eat after games.

What do you love most about playing defensive tackle?

Being part of the D-line is the best part. It's a bigger group than people think, and we all rely on each other. It's a simple but physical and demanding job, and all of us have the same goal.

Describe your playing style in three words.

Physical, focused, and fast.

If you could play any other position for a day, what would it be?

Safety seems so fun. You can play free, drop into coverage, blitz, and fit the run.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I like to golf, even though I'm not very good. I also enjoy watching movies and playing video games.

Favorite NFL team and player?

I'm a die-hard Vikings fan. Growing up, Jared Allen was my favorite player.

Fun fact about you?

I was born without the sense of smell. I've never been able to smell anything my whole life, so that's a pretty interesting one.

What stood out about WSU's football culture when you arrived?

Everyone is willing to work hard. With a new coaching staff and many new players, it's going to be hard work, but everyone is ready to put in the effort.

Biggest influence in your football journey?

My whole family, honestly. Both my parents supported me by taking me to camps, and my older brothers would run drills with me growing up. They've all played a huge part.

Key to the team's success this season?

Coming together to build our culture, being willing to work hard every day, and knowing what it takes to be successful.

Advice to your freshman self?

Take things seriously from the start. Buy in right away, and do everything you can to put yourself in a position to play.

What are you looking forward to this season?

As a team just getting on the field and playing a football game with the team. I'm excited to suit up and go out there together after all the hard work we put in this offseason. I'm excited to see the crowd and experience games like the Apple Cup and the Ole Miss game.