Ukrainian Forward Kate Koval Leaves LSU After Program Signs Russian Player: “I Have To Remain True To Myself, My Values, and My Country”

Kate Koval, a forward for the women’s team of LSU (Louisiana State University) from Ukraine, is quitting the basketball club after LSU signed Russian national Anna Minaeva for the team. She learned of the decision just days after the transfer portal closed in April.

At 6 feet 5 inches high, Koval has an average of 8.3 points per game and 6.3 rebounds in the last season. However, coach Kim Mulkey explained that in this case, talent outweighs the international tension. He hopes players can do something for peace. LSU expressed its support for Koval’s difficult decision.

Koval released the statement.

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

The player was expected to be back with the Tigers this season until she learned about the decision to sign Minaeva.

“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.”

She stressed that this conflict is not something distant to her.

“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.”

She told about the loss of relatives and the destruction of the places where she grew up and trained basketball.

“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.”

According to Koval, these events led her to reconsider her future at LSU.

“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.”

Koval admitted that the reality of college roster moves cannot be neglected.

“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.”

She thanked the people she is leaving at LSU.

“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.”

Koval finished her statement with a request addressed to the NCAA.

“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.”