Kim Mulkey, head coach of LSU women’s basketball, dazzles the college basketball world by turning down the Tennessee Vols’ $20.5 million NBA offer and urging Notre Dame to stay with the LSU Tigers.
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the world of women’s college basketball, LSU women’s basketball head coach Kim Mulkey has made a monumental decision to reject a substantial $20.5 million NBA offer from the Tennessee Vols and Notre Dame, choosing instead to remain with the LSU Tigers. This decision underscores Mulkey’s unwavering commitment to her alma mater and her vision for the future of LSU’s women’s basketball program.​
A Record-Breaking Contract Extension
Kim Mulkey’s tenure at LSU has been marked by unprecedented success. In April 2023, she led the Tigers to their first-ever NCAA women’s basketball national championship, defeating Iowa with a commanding 102-85 victory. This triumph added to her illustrious coaching career, which includes three national titles at Baylor, bringing her total to four NCAA championships as a head coach.​thecomeback.com+2UPI+2UPI+2TMZ
In recognition of her achievements, LSU offered Mulkey a groundbreaking 10-year contract extension worth $36 million, making her the highest-paid women’s basketball coach in the country. The contract stipulates an annual salary starting at $2.75 million, escalating to $3.65 million by the final year of the deal in 2033. Additionally, Mulkey is eligible for up to $550,000 annually in NCAA tournament-related incentives, including $230,000 for winning the national title .​Southern Living+7The Daily Advertiser+7People.com+7Southern Living+4thecomeback.com+4UPI+4UPI+1UPI+1
The NBA’s Lucrative Offer
Despite her success at LSU, Mulkey received a lucrative offer from the NBA, reportedly valued at $20.5 million. The Tennessee Vols and Notre Dame, recognizing her exceptional coaching prowess, extended the offer in hopes of bringing her to the professional ranks. However, Mulkey’s decision to remain at LSU highlights her dedication to collegiate women’s basketball and her belief in the potential of the Tigers’ program.​
A Commitment to LSU and the Future
Mulkey’s decision to reject the NBA’s offer and remain at LSU is a testament to her loyalty and vision for the future of women’s college basketball. Her leadership has already transformed LSU into a powerhouse, and her continued presence promises to elevate the program to even greater heights.​
As LSU prepares for the upcoming season, Mulkey’s commitment serves as a rallying point for the team and the university community. With her at the helm, the Tigers are poised to build on their championship success and continue their ascent in the world of women’s college basketball.​
Kim Mulkey’s decision to remain at LSU, turning down a substantial NBA offer, is a defining moment in the history of women’s college basketball. Her commitment to the Tigers and her vision for the future of the program ensure that LSU will remain a dominant force in the sport for years to come.
