Former LSU women's basketball forward Kate Koval posted a statement to her social media account on Wednesday about why she left the team. She confirmed suspicions that her departure was due to the Tigers signing Russian forward Anna Minaeva.
According to Koval's statement, she learned in April that Minaeva would be signing with LSU. The news came after the transfer portal closed, meaning Koval couldn't go in search of another program. Koval hails from Ukraine and her father serves in the Ukrainian military.
"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
said. "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."
Koval said she felt like she "found a home at LSU" after transferring there ahead of her sophomore year. She played in every game with 17 starts, averaging 8.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. As a junior, she was in line to start at the five and play a major role for LSU inside.
Instead, Koval issued a call to action for the NCAA. In her statement, she made a plea to play for another school for the upcoming season.
LSU’s Kate Koval releases a statement following her decision to leave the program: pic.twitter.com/gBozUXHdJu
— Talia Goodman (@TaliaGoodmanWBB) September 2, 2026
"I hope the NCAA recognizes the circumstances surrounding my situation and understands the seriousness and deep nature of this matter," Koval said. "More than anything, I hope I am given the opportunity to compete at another school during the upcoming 2026-27 basketball season.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Ex-LSU women's basketball forward makes statement after leaving team
