Women’s basketball legend Kim Mulkey denied that she is going to retire after LSU suffered March Madness heartbreak.
The 63-year-old branded rumors surrounding her future ‘flat-out lies’ and insisted: ‘I’m going to be in this game unless LSU fires me.’
No 2 LSU was beaten at the death by Duke on Friday night, with Ashlon Jackson hitting a three-pointer at the buzzer to secure an 87-85 win in the Sweet 16.
Mulkey has won four NCAA tournament titles as a head coach – including one with LSU in 2023 and three while in charge of Baylor.
The 63-year-old began coaching back in 1985 and, more than four decades on, she remains one of basketball’s most recognizable figures – thanks in part to her eye-catching attire.
Mulkey wore a purple sequined suit for Friday’s clash with Duke and afterwards she said her phone had been ‘blowing up’ with questions about her future as rumors spread that she could be on the way out.
Kim Mulkey denied that she is going to retire after LSU suffered March Madness heartbreak
The legendary coach, 63, insisted she will only leave when she is fired by the Tigers
‘Do I look that bad?’ Mulkey said amid rumors about her future, adding: I’m only 63′
‘I’m not retiring,’ Mulkey insisted. ‘Do I look that bad? I don’t know where that came from. I’m only 63 and I’m healthy and have a few stints in my heart. My doctor says I’m good to go.’
She added: ‘I plan on hiring two coaches quickly, get in the portal and get two or three more players. Take a little time off, see my grandchildren who flew in and got in late and didn´t see the game. I get to visit with them tonight.’
Mulkey has been in charge of LSU since 2021 and her contract runs through the 2032-33 season.
Duke will face UCLA in the Elite Eight on Sunday, while Mulkey and her players are left to lick their wounds.
‘I’ve been doing this a long time. I’ve lost a national championship with seven-tenths to go. I’ve been in those situations before,’ Mulkey said.
‘It’s heartbreaking for your team and your players and fans. I’ve been around a long time and seen endings like that. I’ve been a part of those endings. It takes a while to get over it.’
