Kim Mulkey, the esteemed Louisiana State University women’s basketball coach, expressed her lack of interest in reading The Washington Post’s profile of her illustrious athletic career ahead of the Tigers’ Sweet 16 game against UCLA. Published just hours before the game, the highly anticipated article by reporter Kent Babb delves into Mulkey’s personal history as a player at Louisiana Tech and her coaching career, including controversies and successes. Mulkey criticized the Post for contacting LSU with questions just before the start of a tournament game, calling the deadline “ridiculous” and accusing the reporter of attempting to distract the team. She threatened to sue the newspaper if they published any false information about her.
The Washington Post’s article outlines Mulkey’s background as a highly skilled basketball player who won two national championships and an Olympic gold medal before transitioning into coaching. It also delves into her strained relationships with family members, including her father and sister, and her history with former players who have questioned her support for their sexuality. Despite Mulkey’s success on the court, the article highlights instances where she has been embroiled in controversy, such as her handling of a former teammate’s detainment in a Russian prison. While some former players have praised her support, others have expressed disappointment in her responses to sensitive issues.
During a postgame conference following LSU’s victory over UCLA, Mulkey reiterated her lack of interest in reading The Washington Post’s article, implying that its publication just before the game was an attempt to create a distraction. She indicated that her attorneys would review the article for any concerning content that may warrant a response. When asked for a comment on the article, a representative for LSU directed reporters to Mulkey’s statements during the conference. Despite her refusal to engage with the article directly, the controversy surrounding its publication has brought attention to Mulkey’s career and the complexities of her relationships with players and the media.
As LSU moves forward in the women’s March Madness bracket, Mulkey’s focus remains on leading her team to success on the court. With the Tigers advancing to the Elite Eight and a potential second consecutive national title within reach, Mulkey’s coaching prowess and determination are on full display. While the media attention and controversies surrounding her career may continue, Mulkey’s primary goal is to guide her team to victory and solidify her legacy as one of the most accomplished coaches in women’s basketball. As she navigates the challenges of coaching at a high level and dealing with the scrutiny of the press, Mulkey’s resilience and commitment to her players remain central to her approach to the game.
Despite the distractions and controversies that have surrounded her career, Mulkey’s impact on women’s basketball is undeniable. From her days as a dominant player at Louisiana Tech to her successful coaching career at Baylor and LSU, she has left an indelible mark on the sport. While the media scrutiny may persist, Mulkey’s focus remains on her team and their performance on the court. As LSU continues their journey in the NCAA tournament, Mulkey’s leadership and dedication to her players will continue to be the driving force behind their success. With the support of her team and her unwavering commitment to excellence, Mulkey’s legacy as a trailblazing coach in women’s basketball is secure, regardless of the controversies that may arise.
