Baylor announced Saturday that it signed Ukrainian center Kate Koval, whose transfer became possible after the NCAA approved a legislative relief waiver earlier this week. The waiver allowed her to enter the transfer portal outside the standard window, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke to The Associated Press without authorization to speak publicly.
Koval is listed at 6 feet, 5 inches. She produced 8.3 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game for LSU last season. She started her college career at Notre Dame, posting averages of 5.3 points and 4.7 rebounds in the 2024-25 season.
She described her departure in a social media post last week, saying Russia’s war against Ukraine had affected people close to her, including people who were killed or injured. She also said missile strikes damaged locations where she grew up and first played basketball.
Koval wrote that those events caused her to question whether LSU was the right fit, while recognizing that roster choices are part of college basketball, and said her decision reflected her values and backing for Ukraine. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, and the two countries are still at war.
Koval will play for Baylor coach Nicki Collen. Collen said Koval’s scoring near the basket, rebounding and defense around the rim should help the team, while her perimeter play may expand Baylor’s offensive options.
