Kim Mulkey Rejoices – BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – LSU Women’s Basketball Receives Transformative $6.2 Million Donation from Theresa Plaisance
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – LSU Women’s Basketball is experiencing a landmark moment in its program history as former Lady Tiger and WNBA standout Theresa Plaisance has donated $6.2 million to the program. This contribution marks one of the most significant donations ever made by a former female athlete to a collegiate women’s sports program, and it is already being hailed as a transformative gift that could redefine the future of LSU women’s basketball. Head coach Kim Mulkey, known for her passion and commitment to excellence, was overcome with joy as she praised Plaisance’s generosity and devotion to the program.
“Kim Mulkey rejoices,” has become the sentiment ringing throughout the LSU campus and the wider women’s basketball community. Since arriving at LSU, Mulkey has reinvigorated the Lady Tigers with her championship pedigree and unrelenting ambition. Now, thanks to Plaisance’s donation, the resources to further enhance the program’s infrastructure, player development, and outreach have arrived in force.
Theresa Plaisance, who played at LSU from 2010 to 2014, has long credited the university with shaping her both on and off the court. After a successful professional career that included time in the WNBA with teams like the Dallas Wings, Connecticut Sun, and Las Vegas Aces, as well as international stints in Europe, Plaisance decided to give back in a way that would have lasting impact. Her gift is aimed at boosting facilities, expanding scholarships, and enhancing support services for student-athletes.
“This is about honoring the past and investing in the future,” said Plaisance during a press conference at the SEC Women’s Basketball Media Days in Birmingham. “LSU gave me the foundation I needed to thrive, and now I want to help ensure that the next generation of Lady Tigers has even greater opportunities to succeed.”
Coach Kim Mulkey was visibly emotional as she addressed the media, calling the donation “a game-changer” for the program. “We are building something truly special at LSU,” Mulkey said. “Theresa’s incredible generosity will allow us to compete not only for national championships but also to develop young women into leaders, both on the court and in life.”
The funds will reportedly go toward a comprehensive upgrade of training facilities, including the construction of a new practice gym and recovery center. Additionally, the donation will support the academic and wellness initiatives that have become central to LSU’s commitment to holistic athlete development.
Athletic Director Scott Woodward emphasized the symbolic significance of the donation, saying, “This is more than money. It’s a powerful statement about the impact women’s sports can have and the legacy former athletes can create. Theresa Plaisance is setting a precedent that will inspire future generations.”
LSU’s women’s basketball program has enjoyed a renaissance under Mulkey, who led the team to a national championship in 2023 and has brought renewed energy and visibility to the program. The gift from Plaisance only amplifies that momentum, ensuring that LSU remains at the forefront of women’s collegiate basketball.
Fans, alumni, and fellow athletes have praised Plaisance’s leadership, with social media buzzing with gratitude and excitement. Many believe this act of giving could trigger a ripple effect across other programs nationwide, encouraging former female athletes to consider how they, too, can give back to the institutions that launched their careers.
As the Lady Tigers prepare for the upcoming season, the mood is one of celebration and renewed purpose. With Mulkey at the helm, Plaisance’s historic donation in the bank, and a talented roster ready to compete, LSU women’s basketball is poised to ascend to even greater heights.
And as Kim Mulkey rejoices, so too does an entire community that believes in the power of women’s sports and the enduring bond between at
hlete and alma mater.