Kate Koval is out at LSU women's basketball, exiting the program 10 days after the Tigers added Russian center Anna Minaeva to their 2026/27 roster.
The 6-foot-5 Ukrainian, whose father reportedly serves in Ukraine's military amid the ongoing war with Russia, is now entering the NCAA transfer portal.
LSU Coach Kim Mulkey Addresses Kate Koval's Departure
Minaeva, a 17-year-old who played professionally for MBA Moscow, arrives as head coach Kim Mulkey enters her sixth season with LSU. Mulkey says she spoke with Koval before pursuing the Russian recruit, though the Tigers cited only "personal reasons" for the departure.
"We had a long talk about it, and it was a hard decision for her," Mulkey said. "I know it is hard because she loves LSU."
A Statement From Head Coach Kim Mulkey: pic.twitter.com/vIkici06aH
— LSU Women's Basketball (@LSUwbkb) August 24, 2026
The move costs LSU a player who put up 8.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game across 17 starts last season, shooting 56% from the field. A Notre Dame transfer, Koval also tallied seven double-doubles and 43 blocks to rank 10th in the nation, while helping the Tigers reach the Sweet 16 for a fourth straight year.
For now, Koval's next destination remains unclear, and she is ineligible to play for a new team this season.
