Kim Mulkey: LSU Coach, Controversies & Legacy - What To Know

Can a coach's undeniable success overshadow a controversial past? For Kim Mulkey, the answer appears to be a resounding yes, even as her legacy remains deeply intertwined with both triumph and tribulation. Her arrival at Louisiana State University (LSU) brought not only a national championship but also a renewed spotlight on her complex relationship with the LGBTQ+ community, a relationship that has followed her throughout her illustrious career.

Kim Mulkey is, without a doubt, a force in the world of women's basketball. Her resume speaks volumes: three national titles at Baylor University, followed by a swift ascent to glory at LSU, culminating in the 2023 national championship in just her second season. From 2000 to 2021, she built a dynasty at Baylor, transforming the program into a perennial powerhouse. Before her coaching career, Mulkey was a star player herself, achieving national recognition for her skills and leadership. Her induction into both the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame solidifies her place among the sport's elite. But her coaching career is also punctuated by moments that have drawn criticism, particularly regarding her perceived treatment of LGBTQ+ athletes.