Kate Koval, a Ukrainian forward, has decided to leave LSU’s women’s basketball team. Her departure is linked to the team’s recent signing of a Russian player. Koval expressed her decision publicly, emphasizing the profound impact the situation had on her and her family amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Koval stated, “The timing of this situation and the deeply personal effect it has had on me, my family and those we care about who continue to live through and fight this war ultimately made me question whether LSU remained the right place for me.” Her decision reflects her commitment to her values and her country.
LSU coach Kim Mulkey announced Koval’s departure last week, citing “personal reasons” after her first season with the team. The assumption was that Koval’s decision was influenced by the signing of Anna Minaeva, a Russian center who formerly played for MBA Moscow.
Koval highlighted her father’s service in the Ukrainian military, which she expressed pride in, as he defends against Russian aggression. She remarked on the war’s direct impact, mentioning loss and destruction caused by missile strikes in places significant to her.
Although she appreciated her time at LSU, the addition of the Russian player made continuing there untenable for Koval. She revealed that she was not informed about Minaeva’s addition until after the transfer portal closed in April. Without intervention from the NCAA, Koval faces potentially sitting out the 2026-27 season. She hopes the NCAA will consider her circumstances and allow her to compete at another school next season.
Koval spent her freshman year at Notre Dame before transferring to LSU, where she played all 35 games, starting in 17, during the 2025-26 season. She averaged 8.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 1.2 blocks in 16.6 minutes per game. LSU’s season ended in March with a Sweet 16 loss to Duke due to a buzzer-beater by Ashlon Jackson.
As of Wednesday night, neither the NCAA nor LSU had commented on the situation.