Ukrainian basketball player Kate Koval has announced her departure from Louisiana State University's (LSU) basketball programme. The 20-year-old stated her decision was a direct result of the team signing Russian player Anna Minaeva.
Koval, who had completed one season with LSU, said Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine was the reason for her departure. She stated on Instagram that her father serves in the Ukrainian military and that the war has had a deep personal effect on her and her family.
Despite the transfer portal being closed, Koval hopes the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) will recognise her circumstances and allow her to join another university for the upcoming season. She was expected to be LSU's starting centre this year and has two years of collegiate eligibility remaining.