In a surprising twist that rocked women’s college basketball, Notre Dame standout Kate Koval has flipped her commitment to LSU, securing a groundbreaking $12.1 million NIL deal.
In an unexpected move that sent shockwaves through the world of women’s college basketball, Kate Koval, one of the sport’s brightest young stars, has officially decommitted from Notre Dame and pledged her allegiance to LSU. The switch not only alters the landscape of collegiate basketball but also sets a new standard in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era. Koval’s new NIL deal is reportedly worth a jaw-dropping $12.1 million, making it the largest ever for a female college basketball player.
Kate Koval, a 6-foot-5 forward originally from Ukraine, had been considered a cornerstone of Notre Dame’s future. Her commitment to the Fighting Irish was seen as a major win for the program, especially with her reputation as a dominant force in the paint and a versatile scorer. Ranked as a top-five recruit in the 2024 class, Koval had drawn comparisons to WNBA legends for her footwork, rebounding prowess, and court vision. Her decision to back out of her Notre Dame commitment has not only disappointed fans in South Bend but has also elevated LSU’s already high-powered recruiting class to historic levels.
The driving force behind this stunning development appears to be LSU head coach Kim Mulkey’s aggressive recruiting approach and the school’s increasingly powerful NIL network. Since the inception of NIL opportunities in 2021, LSU has emerged as a leader in maximizing financial value for its athletes. Players like Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson have become household names, not only for their performance on the court but for their marketability and branding off it. By landing Koval with a $12.1 million NIL package, LSU has sent a clear message: it is the new epicenter of women’s college basketball.
The deal itself reportedly includes endorsements with major national brands, social media campaigns, merchandise lines, and opportunities in media and broadcasting. It reflects Koval’s star power and the broader shift in how women’s sports are perceived and valued. Just a few years ago, such a deal would have seemed unimaginable for a college athlete—let alone a female basketball player. Today, it symbolizes the progress being made in equity and recognition for women in sports.
This move also underscores the evolving dynamics of recruitment in the NIL era. No longer are decisions solely based on coaching staff, facilities, or tradition. Financial incentives are now a significant factor, and institutions that can offer high-value NIL opportunities are quickly gaining an edge. While some critics argue that NIL deals could distract from the purity of college athletics, others see it as a long-overdue chance for athletes—especially women—to capitalize on their talent and hard work.
For Notre Dame, the loss is undeniably a tough pill to swallow. Head coach Niele Ivey had built a strong rapport with Koval and was expected to integrate her into a team poised for a deep NCAA tournament run. Now, the Fighting Irish must regroup and pivot their recruiting strategy in the wake of this stunning departure.
On the other hand, LSU’s future looks brighter than ever. With Koval joining a roster already stacked with talent and a coaching staff known for winning championships, the Tigers are shaping up to be a dynasty in the making. The buzz around the program is at an all-time high, and expectations for the upcoming season will be sky-high.
In many ways, Koval’s decision represents a turning point not just for LSU or Notre Dame, but for women’s college basketball as a whole. It’s a moment that highlights the changing nature of college sports, the rising influence of NIL deals, and the increasing visibility and value of female athletes. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Baton Rouge to see just how far Kate Koval
and LSU can go.