Kim Mulkey, the head coach of the LSU Tigers women’s basketball team, has been named the Associated Press (AP) Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year for the third consecutive year. This remarkable achievement underscores her exceptional leadership and the sustained excellence she has brought to the program.
Since taking the helm at LSU in 2021, Mulkey has orchestrated a significant turnaround for the Tigers. In each of her four seasons, she has guided the team to at least 25 wins, a testament to her consistent coaching prowess. Her overall record at LSU stands at an impressive 116-16. Notably, in her second season (2022-2023), Mulkey led LSU to its first-ever women’s basketball national championship, making her the only head coach to win national titles with multiple programs and the only individual to secure championships as a player, assistant coach, and head coach.
The 2024-2025 season further solidified Mulkey’s reputation. Under her guidance, the Tigers achieved a 31-6 record, advancing to the Elite Eight for the second consecutive year. Despite a hard-fought 72-65 loss to UCLA, the team’s performance throughout the season demonstrated resilience and growth. Key players like Flau’jae Johnson, Mikaylah Williams, and Aneesah Morrow played pivotal roles, with Johnson leading the team in scoring and Morrow topping national rebounding charts.
Mulkey’s coaching career is adorned with numerous accolades. Prior to her tenure at LSU, she spent 21 seasons at Baylor University, where she led the Lady Bears to three NCAA championships (2005, 2012, 2019). Her ability to build and sustain winning programs is further evidenced by her being the fastest coach in history to achieve 600 career victories.
Her influence extends beyond the court. Mulkey has been instrumental in elevating the profile of women’s college basketball, drawing attention to the sport through her passionate coaching style and commitment to excellence. Her leadership has not only transformed teams but has also inspired countless players and fans nationwide.
Looking ahead, Mulkey’s focus remains on building upon the foundation she has established at LSU. With the experience gained by her players and the recruitment of new talent, the Tigers are poised for continued success in the coming seasons. Mulkey’s unwavering dedication and strategic acumen suggest that LSU will remain a formidable force in women’s college basketball under her guidance.