Kate Koval Transfers to Baylor University After Leaving LSU

Ukrainian basketball player Kate Koval has transferred to Baylor University after departing from Louisiana State University (LSU) due to the signing of a Russian player. Koval, 20, received a transfer waiver from the NCAA, allowing her to join Baylor despite the transfer window having closed in April.

Koval played all 35 games for LSU last season, averaging 8.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. Her departure was initially attributed to personal reasons, but Koval later revealed that the ongoing war in Ukraine influenced her decision. She expressed the personal impact of the conflict on her family, particularly mentioning her father's service in the Ukrainian military.

The NCAA permits transfer waivers outside the designated window for extenuating circumstances beyond an athlete's control. BBC Sport has reached out to LSU for clarification on the waiver's terms.