LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey and the Tigers were recently targeted in a Los Angeles Times column that labeled the players as “villains” and “dirty debutantes.” Mulkey criticized the column as “sexist,” “awful,” and “wrong,” refusing to allow the media to attack young athletes in that manner. Star player Angel Reese defended Mulkey and her teammates, emphasizing their unity and support for each other despite external criticism. Mulkey vowed to combat sexism and insisted that such derogatory language towards young women athletes is unacceptable.
The controversy unfolded as Caitlin Clark of Iowa delivered a stellar performance, leading her team to the Elite 8 and setting up a rematch with defending champion LSU. Reese remained focused on her team’s mission and solidarity, emphasizing the strong bond among players and coaches in their locker room. Mulkey, as a mother and grandmother, rejected the sexist commentary in the LA Times column and vowed to put an end to such unacceptable language directed towards young athletes. The newspaper has since edited the story, acknowledging that it did not meet their “editorial standards.”
The backlash against the LA Times column came at a time when The Washington Post published a profile on Mulkey, delving into the rifts she has experienced in her career with players and family members. Mulkey expressed her disdain for the Post’s profile, indicating that she may involve her attorneys in handling the situation. Despite the negative media attention, Mulkey remains steadfast in her commitment to supporting and protecting her players, refusing to allow any form of sexism to persist. The Associated Press contributed to the report on this ongoing controversy in women’s basketball.
In the face of challenges and criticism, Mulkey and her team remain focused on their goals and the game of women’s basketball. The unwavering support and unity within the LSU women’s basketball program have been highlighted by players like Angel Reese, who emphasized the strong bond among teammates and coaches. Mulkey’s fierce stance against sexism in sports media reflects her dedication to protecting young athletes from harmful language and unfair treatment. As the team prepares for the Elite 8 and continues to navigate the media scrutiny, they stand united in their mission to succeed and overcome obstacles together.
The controversy surrounding the LA Times column and The Washington Post profile has sparked discussions about sexism in sports media and the importance of advocating for the well-being of young athletes. Mulkey’s refusal to tolerate derogatory language towards her players and her commitment to supporting them demonstrates her leadership and dedication to fostering a positive and empowering environment within the LSU women’s basketball program. Despite facing challenges and scrutiny from the media, Mulkey and her team remain focused on their goals and are determined to rise above the negativity, showcasing resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
