Kate Koval Explains Decision To Leave LSU, Cites Addition Of Russian Player

Former LSU women's basketball player Kate Koval has provided more details about her decision to leave the program and withdraw from the university ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Koval revealed that her decision was connected to LSU's decision to add Russian player Anna Minaeva to the roster, a move she said she learned about several days after the transfer portal closed in April.

The situation was deeply personal for Koval, a native of Ukraine whose father currently serves in the Ukrainian military. She explained that people close to her have been killed and wounded in Russian attacks, while places where she grew up and began playing basketball have been destroyed during the ongoing war.

Koval said the circumstances ultimately led her to question whether LSU remained the right place for her. She is now hoping the NCAA will consider her situation and allow her to compete at another school during the upcoming season.

Koval released the following statement:

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After much reflection, I have made the difficult decision to step away from the LSU Women's Basketball program and withdraw from LSU.

At the conclusion of last season, I fully intended to return and continue my collegiate career at LSU. However, in April, several days after the transfer portal had closed, I was informed of the decision to sign a Russian player.

My father serves in the Ukrainian military and takes tremendous pride in defending his country against Russian aggression. For me, this war is not distant or abstract. People close to me have been killed and wounded in Russian attacks, and places where I grew up and first began playing basketball have been destroyed by missile strikes.

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.

This decision has not been easy. While I understand and respect that roster decisions are a part of college basketball. I have to remain true to myself, my values, and my country.

I felt I had found a home at LSU, and I am incredibly grateful for my teammates who became family, as well as my coaches, staff, professors, and the entire LSU community. I will always cherish the relationships, experiences, and memories I made there.

I hope the NCAA recognizes the circumstances surrounding my situation and understands the seriousness and deep nature of this matter. More than anything, I hope I am given the opportunity to compete at another school during the upcoming 2026-27 basketball season. Kate Koval

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