Ukrainian center Kateryna Koval made a strong impression in her debut for the Baylor Bears, helping her new team secure an 87-66 victory over the Fairleigh Dickinson Knights in the NCAA women’s college basketball season.
During her 21 minutes on the court, Koval emerged as one of the game’s standout performers, contributing 14 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 blocks. Her efficient shooting performance included making 6 out of 7 shots from two-point range and converting 2 of 3 free-throw attempts.
This game marked Koval’s first official appearance following a controversy in September, when she chose to leave the University of Louisiana after management signed Russian player Anna Minaeva. Supported by special NCAA permission, Koval was able to transfer outside the standard transfer window, allowing her to play immediately without missing the season.
Koval is currently in her third year playing in the United States, having previously spent time at Notre Dame and the University of Louisiana. In addition to her collegiate career, she has represented Ukraine across all youth and junior national levels, and she debuted for Ukraine’s senior 3×3 national team in June 2025 at the Women’s Series event in Vienna.
