Breaking: LSU Tigers women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey named AP Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year for the third straight year…see more
In a historic achievement, LSU Tigers women’s basketball head coach Kim Mulkey has been named the Associated Press (AP) Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year for the third consecutive season. This latest honor cements Mulkey’s legacy as one of the most accomplished coaches in the history of women’s college basketball. Known for her passionate leadership, tactical brilliance, and championship pedigree, Mulkey continues to elevate LSU’s program to national prominence with every passing year.
Mulkey’s third straight AP Coach of the Year award follows another dominant season by the Tigers, who have consistently remained among the top-ranked teams in the nation under her direction. Since taking the reins at LSU in 2021, Mulkey has revitalized the program, turning it into a perennial powerhouse and guiding the team to deep postseason runs, including the 2023 NCAA national championship—LSU’s first in women’s basketball. Her ability to recruit top-tier talent, develop players, and instill a winning culture has earned her widespread respect across the basketball community.
What sets Mulkey apart is her unrelenting drive and deep understanding of the game. She holds her players to the highest standards while creating an environment of accountability and support. This season, despite dealing with injuries and a fiercely competitive SEC schedule, Mulkey’s Tigers remained resilient, showcasing a level of grit and discipline that mirrored their coach’s fiery persona. Her strategic prowess was evident in how LSU adapted throughout the season, often switching styles mid-game to counter opponents’ strengths.
Under Mulkey’s leadership, LSU has not only achieved success on the court but has also become a national brand in women’s sports. The Tigers have seen record-breaking attendance numbers, surging merchandise sales, and increased media visibility. Mulkey’s own charismatic presence—never one to shy away from a bold outfit or a blunt quote—has helped draw attention to the sport in ways few others have. Her commitment to promoting women’s basketball has contributed to the growing popularity of the NCAA women’s game.
This latest AP honor adds to Mulkey’s already illustrious resume, which includes multiple national championships, numerous conference titles, and a spot in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. She is the only person to win NCAA titles as a player, assistant coach, and head coach, a testament to her lifelong dedication to excellence in basketball. With her third AP Coach of the Year award at LSU, she continues to set a standard for coaching greatness and program-building across college athletics.
As the postseason looms and the Tigers set their sights on another championship run, Kim Mulkey’s recognition serves as a reminder of what’s possible when talent meets tireless leadership. With her at the helm, LSU remains a formidable force in women’s college basketball, and the legacy of excellence she is building in Baton Rouge shows no signs of slowing down.
