Former LSU center Kate Koval confirmed her departure from the program due to LSU's decision to sign a Russian player, a move she publicly addressed in an Instagram post on Wednesday. This announcement followed LSU coach Kim Mulkey's previous statement that Koval left for "personal reasons."

Koval, a 6-foot-5 junior from Ukraine, revealed that she learned about the signing of the Russian player after the transfer portal deadline had passed. She expressed hope that the NCAA would recognize her unique situation and allow her to transfer to another school for the 2026-27 basketball season.

In her heartfelt statement, Koval shared the personal impact of the ongoing war, stating:

• Her father serves in the Ukrainian military.
• She has lost friends and family due to Russian aggression.
• Places significant to her basketball journey have been destroyed.

Originally transferring from Notre Dame, Koval had started in 17 games for the Tigers, averaging 8.3 points and 6.3 rebounds. Initially, she planned to continue her career at LSU, but her feelings changed after Mulkey signed Anna Minaeva, a Russian teenager.

During a conversation about the signing, Mulkey acknowledged Koval's views but insisted on the importance of recruiting talent to enhance the program. Koval's response was skeptical, reflecting her deep concerns about the implications of such a decision.

If Koval's waiver isn't granted, she faces missing the entire 2026-27 season, with limited options for transferring next April. She concluded her statement by expressing gratitude for her time at LSU and the relationships she built there, emphasizing her commitment to her values and her country.