Ukrainian center Kate Koval, a former star player for LSU women’s basketball, has shared her reasons for leaving the team. Her departure was initially announced in August, attributed to “personal reasons” by head coach Kim Mulkey.

On Wednesday, Koval used her Instagram account to confirm that her decision was influenced by the recruitment of 17-year-old Russian center Anna Minaeva. “After much reflection, I have made the difficult decision to step away from the LSU Women’s Basketball program and withdraw from LSU,” Koval stated.

Koval’s statement outlined her intention to continue play at LSU until she learned in April that the team had signed a Russian player. Her father’s service in the Ukrainian Army and the impact of Russian aggression on her friends and family played a role in her decision.

LSU head coach Kim Mulkey defended her decision to recruit Minaeva, emphasizing that basketball decisions cannot be swayed by political conflicts. Mulkey expressed hope that players like Koval and Minaeva could act as “ambassadors” to promote unity in her locker room.

Koval highlighted the personal impact of the situation, noting that these events have prompted her to reconsider her place at LSU. Despite these circumstances, Koval expressed her desire to continue her college basketball career elsewhere during the 2026-27 season.

She hopes the NCAA acknowledges her situation and allows her to compete at another school. OutKick reached out to Koval for further comments but were directed to her public statement released earlier.