The LSU Tigers women’s basketball program is losing a key piece of its frontcourt, as Kate Koval has decided to leave the program for personal reasons.
Head coach Kim Mulkey confirmed Koval’s decision, saying the player met with her Sunday and informed her that, after considerable thought, she had decided to move on.
“Kate came to see me on Sunday and told me that after much consideration, she will be leaving the program for personal reasons,” Mulkey said.
Mulkey did not provide additional details regarding
Koval’s decision, emphasizing that LSU will respect her privacy during this time.
The decision comes after Koval’s first season with the Tigers in 2025. She appeared in 35 games and made 17 starts, averaging 16.6 minutes per game.
The 20-year-old averaged 8.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 0.4 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.2 blocks per game while turning the ball over 1.3 times per contest. Koval shot 56.0% from the field and 75.2% from the free-throw line.
Overall, Koval scored 292 points during her time with LSU, establishing herself as a productive contributor in the Tigers’ frontcourt.
Despite the difficult decision, Mulkey made it clear that LSU supports Koval and understands her decision.
“We will respect her privacy on her decision, but 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.”
Mulkey also praised Koval as a person and reiterated that the program has her back.
“Kate is a great person. She has to do what she feels is right for her, and we fully support her in that,” Mulkey said. “We all wish her the best.”
Koval’s departure gives LSU another roster adjustment to navigate heading into the upcoming season, while the Tigers will now look to replace the production she provided during her lone season in Baton Rouge.
