On Monday, April 7, 6’5” Ukrainian native and Notre Dame freshman Kate Koval committed to the LSU Tigers next season. After a great year with Notre Dame, Koval is taking her skills to the Tigers to try and bring HC Kim Mulkey and Co. another national title.
Koval had been a top player right from high school. In the 2022-2023 season, she was the New York Gatorade Player of the Year. By the end of her high school career, she was one of the top prospects in the country. Let’s take a deep dive into Koval and her background.
Who is Kate Koval? A Look at LSU’s Newest Transfer
Kate Koval played forward for Notre Dame, helping the team reach the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. This season, she recorded a double-double in rebounding. Koval averaged 5.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game in the 32 games she played.
In November 2024, she won both U.S. Basketball Writers Association National Freshman of the week and ACC Co-Rookie of the week honors.
Koval’s successes can be attributed to her supportive parents, who, despite not having a sports background themselves, have always prioritized her games. Her siblings, Oleksii and Mykola Koval, are also athletes, with Oleksii playing ice hockey and Mykola swimming.
After just one season at Notre Dame, Koval’s commitment to play at LSU may be the result of a desire to improve her offensive skills. The Tigers are also known for developing players who become stars and winning games and tournaments, which may have attracted Koval.
What Will Koval’s Transfer Mean For the Notre Dame?
After losing three players to the transfer portal, Notre Dame now faces another major departure: Kate Koval’s departure to LSU.
Her transfer adds to the program’s growing challenge. To stay competitive next season, the coaching staff will need to rebuild the roster and rethink the team’s strategy.
What Will She Bring to LSU?
LSU head coach Kim Mulkey has once again demonstrated her talent for recruiting elite players. She expressed excitement about adding Koval to the team, and it’s easy to see why.
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Beyond her impressive height, Koval is a standout defender with exceptional shot-blocking ability. She excels as a rim protector, boasts strong rebounding skills, and has a bright future ahead. Koval will be a key asset to LSU, just as she was at Notre Dame
Koval is undoubtedly a crucial asset to any team she joins. Fans will be eager to see her impact at LSU.
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