In a recent announcement, LSU women's basketball head coach Kim Mulkey confirmed that junior guard Kateri Poole is not currently with the team. Poole, hailing from Bronx, New York, did not join the squad for their two games in the Cayman Islands Classic. This season, Poole has only participated in four out of eight games for LSU.

The absence of Poole on November 14 during the Tigers' victory over Kent State caught the attention of fans, as Mulkey referred to it as a "coach's decision." In the subsequent game against Southeastern, Poole saw five minutes of playtime before being benched for the entire following contest, where LSU secured a dominant 106-47 win over Texas Southern.

Speculation has arisen regarding Poole's return to the team. However, Coach Mulkey has chosen not to divulge any information on whether or when Poole will be back on the court.

Poole played a crucial role in LSU's impressive NCAA Tournament run last season, which culminated in a remarkable 102-85 triumph over Iowa in the national championship game. Mulkey recognized Poole's defensive prowess, which prompted her inclusion in the starting lineup during tournament play. Additionally, Poole showcased her offensive capabilities by converting seven out of 13 attempts from beyond the arc across LSU's six tournament games.

As the team navigates through Poole's absence, the Tigers are further burdened by the loss of sophomore forward Sa'Myah Smith. Smith suffered a severe injury, tearing her ACL, MCL, and meniscus during LSU's victory over Niagara last Friday.

Poole began her college career at Ohio State, where she spent two seasons before transferring to LSU in 2022.

The LSU women's basketball team will now face the challenge of competing without both Poole and Smith. Fans eagerly await developments regarding Poole's future with the team and hope for a speedy recovery for Smith as the Tigers continue their season.