Angel Reese, the standout LSU star who made waves throughout her collegiate career, has now taken the next step in her basketball journey—entering the WNBA with high hopes and great expectations. With her move into the professional league, she has already established herself as a force to be reckoned with. While her undeniable talent and hard work have been essential to her success, Reese credits much of her development to the guidance and mentorship she received from LSU head coach Kim Mulkey.
As one of the premier coaches in women’s basketball, Mulkey’s influence has shaped not only Reese’s physical development but also her mental approach to the game. Their relationship, built over years of collaboration, is a powerful testament to the importance of a strong mentor-mentee bond in the world of athletics. For Reese, Mulkey was more than just a coach; she was a teacher, a motivator, and, at times, a tough-love disciplinarian, all of which played a significant role in Reese’s transition from a high school prodigy to one of the brightest prospects in the WNBA.
Reese, known for her imposing presence on the court, credits Mulkey for instilling a sense of self-belief and discipline that has been central to her success. “When I came to LSU, Coach Mulkey took me in as one of her own,” Reese said in a recent interview. “She pushed me to be better every single day, and it wasn’t always easy. But looking back, I can see how much she helped me grow—not just as a basketball player, but as a person. That’s something I’ll carry with me into my WNBA career.”
Mulkey’s impact on Reese’s development is evident in the way she transformed her game. Known for her tenacious defense, rebound dominance, and offensive versatility, Reese thrived under Mulkey’s tutelage, developing a well-rounded skill set that has made her a nightmare for opponents. Mulkey’s emphasis on discipline, attention to detail, and mental toughness helped Reese elevate her game to a level that many players only dream of reaching.
One of the most significant aspects of Mulkey’s coaching style that resonated with Reese was her commitment to pushing players beyond their comfort zones. Mulkey was never content with just good enough—she demanded excellence, and Reese was ready to meet those expectations. “Coach Mulkey is always pushing you to be your best, and sometimes that’s uncomfortable,” Reese explained. “She didn’t let me settle. Every time I thought I was playing at a high level, she showed me a way to get even better. It’s a mentality that I take with me every time I step on the court.”
Another key factor in Reese’s growth was Mulkey’s insistence on creating a winning culture. Under her leadership, LSU became a powerhouse in women’s college basketball, a program that was always in contention for the highest honors. Mulkey instilled in Reese and her teammates a fierce competitiveness and an unwavering commitment to excellence. For Reese, being part of such a winning culture played a pivotal role in her preparation for the WNBA, where success is measured by championships and accolades.
“Coach Mulkey taught me what it means to truly be a winner,” Reese said. “She doesn’t just want you to succeed—she wants you to dominate. And that mindset is something that you can’t take for granted. It’s the kind of mentality that helps you get through the tough times in your career. Whether it’s the ups or the downs, you have to stay focused and keep pushing forward, and that’s what Coach Mulkey instilled in me.”
In addition to her on-court development, Mulkey also helped Reese hone the mental aspects of her game. Mulkey, who has an extensive background in psychology and coaching, is known for her ability to help players navigate the emotional highs and lows that come with competing at the highest level. She helped Reese manage pressure, build resilience, and maintain a balanced mindset, all of which are crucial in the demanding world of professional basketball.
Reese often reflects on the challenges she faced during her time at LSU—both personally and professionally—and how Mulkey helped her overcome those hurdles. “There were times when I doubted myself or got frustrated, but Coach Mulkey was always there to push me through it,” Reese said. “She’s a coach who understands that there’s more to the game than just scoring points. She cares about your growth, both on and off the court.”
As Reese transitions into the WNBA, she carries with her not only the technical skills she developed at LSU but also the invaluable lessons Mulkey taught her about leadership, discipline, and resilience. In a league where the competition is fierce and the margin for error is small, Reese is confident that the foundation Mulkey helped her build will serve her well.
“Coach Mulkey taught me how to be a leader, how to demand respect, and how to never back down from a challenge,” Reese reflected. “When I’m on the court in the WNBA, I know that I’m representing everything she helped me become. And I’m excited to continue to grow and show the world what I’m capable of.”
The relationship between Reese and Mulkey is an example of the profound influence that a coach can have on a player’s career. Mulkey’s impact extends far beyond her ability to draw up plays or develop talent—she has the rare ability to transform the mindset and mentality of her players, equipping them with the mental tools necessary to succeed in the highly competitive world of professional sports.
In many ways, Mulkey’s mentorship mirrors her own experiences as a player and coach. As a player, Mulkey was known for her fierce competitiveness and her ability to perform under pressure, qualities that she has passed down to her athletes. Her success as a coach is rooted in her understanding of the mental and emotional aspects of the game, and her ability to prepare players not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, for the rigors of the sport.
For Reese, Mulkey’s impact will continue to resonate throughout her WNBA career. As she enters the next chapter of her basketball journey, she is equipped with the tools, mindset, and confidence necessary to succeed at the highest level. And she knows that Mulkey’s influence will always be a part of her, guiding her through the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
In reflecting on the relationship between herself and Mulkey, Reese sums it up best: “Coach Mulkey didn’t just make me a better basketball player—she made me a better person. She taught me how to be tough, how to be a winner, and how to never give up. I’m so grateful for everything she did for me, and I know I’ll carry those lessons with me for the rest of my career.”
As Reese embarks on her professional journey, the legacy of her time at LSU, and the lessons learned under Mulkey’s tutelage, will continue to shape her path. With the combination of Mulkey’s coaching and Reese’s raw talent, the WNBA is likely to see a superstar rise to the top in the coming years.
