Ukrainian center Koval leaves LSU over Russian recruit, NCAA future unclear

Kate Koval, a Ukrainian center at LSU, left the Tigers after LSU signed Russian 6-foot-5 center Anna Minaeva, a move Koval said compelled her to reconsider her future with the program. She described the decision as deeply personal, tied to the ongoing war in Ukraine and her father’s service in the Ukrainian military, stressing that the conflict is not distant or abstract for her. LSU coach Kim Mulkey had previously announced Koval’s departure for personal reasons, and Minaeva’s signing—discussed as a roster decision—linked the two in media reports. Koval said she was not informed about Minaeva’s addition until after the transfer portal had closed, raising concerns she could be required to sit out the 2026-27 season without NCAA relief. She expressed hope the NCAA would grant relief and allow her to play for another school this season or in the following season. Multiple outlets corroborate Koval’s account and frame it within the broader context of the Russia-Ukraine war and its impact on athletes and programs.