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LSU parts ways with Kate Koval after personal reasons

8/25/2026

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Summary

Koval Leaves LSU

Ukrainian center Kate Koval is leaving the LSU women’s basketball program for personal reasons.
Coach Kim Mulkey said the decision was hard for Koval and the team will respect her privacy.
LSU signed 6-5 Russian post Anna Minaeva from MBA Moscow less than two weeks before Koval’s departure.
Mulkey hopes Koval and Minaeva can serve as ambassadors for their countries despite the Ukraine-Russia war.

Summary

LSU Buzzer-Loss

LSU lost to No. 3 seed Duke 87-85 on a buzzer-beating three-pointer in the Sweet Sixteen.
Head coach Kim Mulkey entered her sixth season after guiding LSU to the 2023 national title.
Mulkey’s overall LSU record stands at 151-26, including a 65-15 conference tally.
LSU opens the 2026-27 season on November 2 at home against Southeastern Louisiana.
Sophomore Grace Knox posted 8.8 points and 4.6 rebounds as a freshman.

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Koval Leaves LSU

Ukrainian center Kate Koval is leaving the LSU women’s basketball program for personal reasons.
Coach Kim Mulkey said the decision was hard for Koval and the team will respect her privacy.
LSU signed 6-5 Russian post Anna Minaeva from MBA Moscow less than two weeks before Koval’s departure.
Mulkey hopes Koval and Minaeva can serve as ambassadors for their countries despite the Ukraine-Russia war.

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