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Kim Mulkey addresses recruitment of Russian center amid political tensions

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 9:42 AM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Kim Mulkey addresses recruitment of Russian center amid political tensions

Summary

LSU Tigers coach Kim Mulkey discussed her recruitment of 6'5" Russian center Anna Minaeva while acknowledging the complexities due to political tensions between Ukraine and Russia. This conversation occurred with current player Kate Koval, a Ukrainian, as Mulkey emphasized her respect for Koval's feelings about the situation. The addition of Minaeva follows LSU's successful season, where they secured their first national championship with Angel Reese leading the team. Mulkey stated her commitment to building a competitive roster despite geopolitical issues.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Kim Mulkey prepares for her sixth season as head coach of LSU.
•Anna Minaeva, a highly rated freshman, joins the team amid regional tensions.
•Kate Koval is the current Ukrainian player on the roster.
•Mulkey emphasizes respect and understanding in her recruiting strategy.
•LSU seeks to maintain competitiveness after winning their first national championship.

Latest Updates

9:42 AMYahoo Sports — “I’m Not Here to Ask You to Change How You Feel About Russia”: Kim Mulkey’s Conversation With Ukraine’s Kate Koval Before Recruiting 6’5” Russian Center Revealed by LSU Insider

What they're saying

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Kim Mulkey is set to start her sixth season as the head coach of the LSU Tigers. In her second year with the team, she entered the LSU history when Angel Reese and the team won the first national championship for the first time in their history.
— Yahoo Sports

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