Kathmandu— Ukrainian basketball player Kate Koval has left Louisiana State University's (LSU) women’s basketball team less than two weeks after the program signed Russian center Anna Minaeva. Head coach Kim Mulkey announced Koval’s departure on Monday, citing “personal reasons” for the decision and stating that it was a difficult one for the athlete. The announcement followed a private conversation between Mulkey and Koval regarding their potential to coexist as teammates amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions between Ukraine and Russia.

Recruitment of Russian Player

LSU announced Anna Minaeva’s signing on August 14, hailing the 17-year-old Russian center as a player who could immediately impact the team. Mulkey described Minaeva's move to LSU as requiring “tremendous courage,” noting she was leaving home at just 17 years old to pursue her dream. The coach also stated that geopolitical tensions would not influence the program’s recruitment decisions, asserting she “cannot make a decision to not recruit somebody that can help our program because of a conflict between two countries.” LSU anticipates Minaeva will develop into one of college basketball's most effective post players; she previously played for MBA Moscow in Russia.

Player Concerns and Coach's Response

Prior to Koval’s departure, Mulkey revealed that she had spoken with the Ukrainian player about her willingness to play alongside Minaeva. She said she asked Koval if she was prepared to “pass the ball to each other.” According to Mulkey, she hoped the two players could become “ambassadors” for friendship and potentially contribute to ending the conflict between their countries. Koval reportedly responded skeptically, stating: “I doubt that.”

Broader Context of Athlete Interactions

Koval’s decision follows a pattern of Ukrainian athletes distancing themselves from Russian competitors since the escalation of the conflict in 2022. In May, footage emerged of Ukrainian rhythmic gymnasts covering their ears and eyes during the playing of the Russian and Belarusian national anthems at the European Championships in Varna, Bulgaria. That tournament marked the first time in nearly five years that athletes from Russia and Belarus were permitted to compete under their own flags after restrictions were lifted by World Gymnastics and European Gymnastics.

LSU has not announced any plans to add another player to replace Koval on the roster. The team will continue preparations for the upcoming season with Anna Minaeva as a key potential contributor.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.