Kim Mulkey made preposterous pitch to Ukrainian star leaving LSU after signing of Russian

LSU coach Kim Mulkey told Ukrainian star Kate Koval that she and Russian recruit Anna Minaeva could become ambassadors for peace before Koval left LSU after the Tigers signed Minaeva. Koval, a 6'5" junior from Kyiv, withdrew from classes following the signing. Her father, Oleksandr, is a drone operator in the Ukrainian military. Mulkey sought to inform Koval about the recruiting decision rather than surprise her with Minaeva’s arrival. Meanwhile, Geno Auriemma addressed transgender athletes in women's sports. Koval ultimately left LSU after averaging 8.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 2025-26. Mulkey described the conversation as one of compassion, avoiding asking Koval to change her feelings about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. She suggested Koval and Minaeva could act as 'ambassadors' for peace, though Koval dismissed the idea with a smile. Online backlash called the suggestion 'delusional' and 'a skit from The Office.' Mulkey defended LSU’s decision to recruit Minaeva, who played professionally in MBA Moscow, despite international politics. Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, and the conflict remains ongoing. Ukrainian Ministry of Defense reports 1.5 million Russian casualties, while the Russian Ministry of Defense reported over 1.5 million Ukrainian casualties. Koval moved from Notre Dame to LSU, where she started 17 games last season, averaging 43 blocks and 56% field goal percentage. This year’s LSU team is ranked No. 5 in the AP preseason poll, aiming for another Sweet 16 appearance.