LSU coach Kim Mulkey discusses recruiting Russian freshman amid Ukrainian player tensions
LSU women's basketball coach Kim Mulkey explained to Ukrainian transfer Kate Koval that her recruitment of Russian freshman Anna Minaeva is not meant to change Koval's feelings about Russia.
Kim Mulkey, preparing for her sixth season as head coach of the LSU Tigers women's basketball team, recounted a private discussion with Ukrainian international Kate Koval regarding the addition of Russian freshman Anna Minaeva to the roster. Mulkey stressed that her outreach was driven by respect for Koval's family and personal history, not an attempt to alter Koval's perspective on Russia. Minaeva, a 6-foot-5 forward who posted averages of 11.2 points and 9.6 rebounds while playing for MBA Moscow, becomes the second player from the two rival nations on the squad.
LSU also retains key contributors like Mikaylah Williams and MiLaysia Fulwiley, while other sophomores such as ZaKiyah Johnson, Grace Knox and Meghan Yarnevich provide depth. The recruitment follows LSU's recent successes, including Angel Reese and the team's first national championship in 2023. Mulkey's comments illustrate the program's commitment to assembling talent irrespective of international politics.
Why it matters
The story shows how college sports navigate player recruitment amid global political tensions.
In this story
