Kim Mulkey, the coveted five-star forward, receives an offer from LSU women’s basketball.

In the ever-competitive world of women’s college basketball recruiting, few names have generated more buzz in recent months than Kim Mulkey—not the Hall of Fame coach, but rather the towering, versatile five-star forward out of Texas whose name just happens to mirror that of one of the sport’s biggest icons. And in a twist of poetic symmetry, it’s Mulkey’s LSU Tigers who have now officially entered the race for her commitment.

When LSU extended its scholarship offer to the rising senior forward earlier this week, it immediately sent shockwaves through the recruiting landscape. Already courted by a host of Power Five programs, Mulkey now finds herself in the center of an intense recruiting war—one made all the more compelling given the coach bearing the same name as the prospect.

At 6-foot-2, Mulkey has quickly established herself as one of the most complete frontcourt players in the Class of 2026. Whether she’s dominating in the paint, stepping outside to knock down mid-range jumpers, or running the floor in transition like a guard, her game speaks for itself. College coaches have praised her motor, her defensive instincts, and her leadership on and off the floor.

“She’s a game-changer,” said one national scout with ESPNW. “You don’t often find a forward with her size who can handle the ball, defend every position, and still be your go-to scorer. Kim is the type of player who can redefine a program’s ceiling.”

Mulkey, who plays for the powerhouse AAU team Texas United Elite, averaged 21.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 2.3 blocks during her junior high school season. Her dominance has made her one of the most sought-after recruits in the country, with offers from programs like South Carolina, UConn, Tennessee, Stanford, Baylor, and now LSU.

But it’s that LSU offer that’s raising eyebrows—and stirring storylines.

For casual fans who may not follow high school recruiting closely, the coincidence of names has caused some confusion. But make no mistake—this Kim Mulkey is a high school phenom, not the legendary LSU head coach. The oddity, however, isn’t lost on either side.

“It’s surreal,” the younger Mulkey said with a smile during an interview. “To be offered by someone with the same name, who just happens to be one of the greatest to ever coach the game—it’s honestly kind of wild.”

Coach Kim Mulkey, now entering her fifth season at LSU and coming off a national championship in 2023, addressed the coincidence with her trademark blend of charisma and confidence.

“I’ve seen the headlines, and no, I’m not offering myself a scholarship,” the coach quipped during a recent media availability. “But in all seriousness, she’s a tremendous player and someone we’re very excited about. If she ends up in purple and gold, there’s going to be a lot of double takes in Baton Rouge.”

This offer is part of a broader recruiting push by LSU to reload its frontcourt depth with elite talent. With stars like Angel Reese having departed for the WNBA and Flau’jae Johnson moving into more of a primary scoring role, the Tigers are in a transition phase. Yet under Kim Mulkey’s leadership, the program hasn’t skipped a beat.

Adding the five-star forward would not only give the Tigers a national name with marketing appeal—it would give them a foundational piece for their next championship run.

“She fits the mold of what Coach Mulkey wants: toughness, versatility, and a high basketball IQ,” said SEC Network analyst Carolyn Peck. “And let’s not overlook the fact that LSU has become one of the premier destinations in women’s college basketball. Kids want to play there. It’s fun, competitive, and Coach Mulkey knows how to develop pros.”

Indeed, LSU’s recent track record speaks volumes. Under Mulkey’s guidance, the Tigers have transformed into an offensive powerhouse, while maintaining the gritty defensive identity that’s long been her coaching trademark. The opportunity to play in front of packed crowds at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center and compete for SEC titles and national championships has become a significant draw for top-tier recruits.

Even with LSU in the mix, landing Mulkey won’t be easy. Her recruitment has become a national storyline, and with good reason.

South Carolina, led by Dawn Staley, has made Mulkey a top priority. UConn has also been heavily involved, banking on Geno Auriemma’s long history of success with forward hybrids like Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. Stanford, meanwhile, offers a prestigious academic experience along with Tara VanDerveer’s player-first system.

“I haven’t made any decisions yet,” Mulkey said. “I’m going to take my time, take my visits, and find the best fit for me—both on the court and off it.”

Still, LSU has unique advantages. In addition to the headline-grabbing coincidence, the Tigers boast a fast-paced, physical brand of basketball that complements Mulkey’s skillset. With Flau’jae Johnson as a potential mentor and role model, and NIL opportunities continuing to grow in Baton Rouge, LSU may be more than just a finalist—they could be the favorite.

Speaking of name, image, and likeness, the marketing potential here is staggering. Imagine the branding possibilities for a player named Kim Mulkey playing under Coach Kim Mulkey.

National brands would almost certainly come calling. Whether it’s apparel lines, endorsement deals, or social media partnerships, the symmetry of their names could be leveraged in powerful ways. LSU has already been aggressive and effective in helping athletes maximize NIL potential, and this opportunity may be among the most unique in women’s sports.

“I’m not thinking too much about that right now,” the younger Mulkey said. “But yeah, it’s crossed my mind. It would be pretty cool.”

There’s also a deeper, more poetic element to this potential pairing. Kim Mulkey the coach has already cemented her legacy—three national titles at Baylor, one at LSU, a Hall of Fame induction, and a reputation as one of the fiercest competitors in the sport.

Kim Mulkey the player is just beginning her journey. But the idea of one Mulkey mentoring another, of passing the torch from one generation to the next—on the same team, no less—is a rare kind of sports story.

“She’s just at the start of her career,” said ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo. “But if she does choose LSU, it could be one of those full-circle moments that transcends basketball. It’s bigger than the game—it’s legacy.”

The five-star forward plans to take official visits over the summer, with a decision likely coming during the fall signing period. She’s scheduled to visit LSU in early July, and sources close to the program say the Tigers are planning a full-court press—figuratively and literally.

“She’s a priority for us,” said one LSU assistant. “She’s the kind of player you build around.”

In the meantime, Mulkey will continue refining her game, staying grounded despite the whirlwind of attention. As one of the nation’s most polished young forwards, she’s already been compared to players like A’ja Wilson and Satou Sabally in terms of trajectory.

But comparisons only go so far. Ultimately, the next chapter in the Kim Mulkey story—both on and off the court—is hers to write.

And if fate has its way, that chapter might just begin in Baton Rouge, where a name that already echoes through LSU basketball history might soon take on an entirely new meaning.

In a world where sports stories are often manufactured or overhyped, this one feels organic—genuine. A once-in-a-generation recruit sharing the name of a legendary coach, now offered the chance to make history together. Whether or not the younger Kim Mulkey ultimately chooses LSU, the narrative is already compelling.

But if she does? College basketball fans better buckle up. Because two Mulkeys on one sideline could be the most entertaining—and dominant—combination the sport has seen in years.