Ukrainian center Kate Koval is moving from LSU to Baylor, where she will play for coach Nicki Collen. Baylor announced the signing Saturday, after the NCAA approved a legislative relief waiver that allowed Koval to enter the transfer portal outside the regular window.
A person familiar with the situation provided that information anonymously to The Associated Press because the person was not authorized to speak publicly.
Koval addressed her LSU departure in a social media post last week. She said Russia's war against Ukraine had affected people close to her, including people who were killed or wounded. She also said missile strikes damaged places where she grew up and started playing basketball.
Koval wrote that those circumstances made her question whether LSU was the right place, while recognizing that roster choices are part of college basketball. She said she needed to follow her values and support her country.
Koval, listed at 6 feet, 5 inches, averaged 8.3 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game for LSU last season. She began her college career at Notre Dame, averaging 5.3 points and 4.7 rebounds in the 2024-25 season. Collen said Koval's interior scoring, rebounding and shot blocking will help Baylor, while her perimeter play could expand the offense.
