Kim Mulkey Opens Up: A One-on-One with WAFB on LSU Basketball, College Athletics, Kramer, and Her Passion for Music

Kim Mulkey has been a transformative figure in collegiate basketball, and in an exclusive sit-down with WAFB, the head coach of LSU Women’s Basketball opened up about various aspects of her life, both on and off the court. From her journey with LSU basketball to her thoughts on the evolving landscape of college athletics, Mulkey’s passion for the game is only rivaled by her deep love for music and the bond she shares with her players, particularly her connection with sophomore star, Kateri “Kramer” DeAngelo. This interview provides insight into Mulkey’s approach to coaching, her views on the current state of collegiate sports, and a look into her personal life, offering a well-rounded perspective on the woman behind the legendary career.

The Journey to LSU

Kim Mulkey’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. She was a standout player at Louisiana Tech, leading them to national prominence before moving on to an illustrious coaching career at Baylor University. After making history at Baylor, where she won three NCAA Championships, Mulkey returned to her home state of Louisiana in 2021 to take the reins of LSU Women’s Basketball.

“Coming back home to Louisiana was a dream,” Mulkey said. “This is where I grew up, where I played my college ball, and to be able to return and coach the program that I love is something I cherish every single day.”

Mulkey’s impact was almost immediate. She led LSU to the NCAA Tournament in her first season and had an impressive run in subsequent years. Her emphasis on defense, discipline, and team-oriented play has helped restore LSU to national prominence in women’s basketball. But beyond the wins and losses, Mulkey is known for her leadership and ability to build strong, tight-knit teams.

“I always say, you’ve got to be able to build relationships with these players, not just teach them the game of basketball. They need to know you care about them as people,” Mulkey explains. “That’s been a cornerstone of my coaching philosophy.”

The Current State of College Athletics

As a coach who has been at the forefront of women’s sports for decades, Mulkey has seen college athletics undergo tremendous change. From the explosion of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals to the ongoing debate over the future of conference realignment, Mulkey has strong opinions on the shifting landscape.

“I think the NIL deals have brought a lot of attention to college athletics, but we have to be careful,” she states. “It’s a new world, and while I support athletes benefiting from their talent and their name, we also have to ensure that the focus remains on the student-athlete’s growth, both academically and athletically.”

Mulkey is adamant that the integrity of collegiate sports must be maintained, even as financial rewards continue to grow. Her belief is that athletes should be rewarded for their hard work, but it should never come at the cost of their education or the team dynamic.

“There’s no question that the landscape is changing,” she continues. “But we can’t lose sight of what college sports are about. These players are still students, and we need to prioritize their development as people, not just as athletes.”

One aspect that Mulkey is particularly vocal about is the increasing pressures faced by female athletes in the evolving landscape. She stresses the importance of equity, ensuring that women’s sports receive the same level of support and recognition as their male counterparts. Her advocacy for gender equality in college athletics has been a cornerstone of her leadership style, and she has become a powerful voice for women in sports.

“I want every young girl to look at women’s sports and see the opportunities, not just in basketball, but across the board,” Mulkey says. “I want them to know that they can dream big, and their dreams can come true.”

Kateri “Kramer” DeAngelo: A Special Bond

One of the standout players under Mulkey’s leadership at LSU is sophomore Kateri “Kramer” DeAngelo, a dynamic guard who has become a key part of the team. Mulkey has often spoken about her special connection with Kramer, both on and off the court.

“Kramer is one of the most focused and driven young women I’ve had the pleasure of coaching,” Mulkey says with a smile. “She’s got that fire inside her, and she never stops working. She’s the type of player who leads by example and inspires her teammates to elevate their game.”

For Kramer, the bond she shares with Mulkey has been instrumental in her development as a player and as a person. “Coach Mulkey is like a second mother to me,” Kramer says. “She’s tough, but she’s fair. She cares about us, not just as basketball players but as people. She’s always there to support us, even when things aren’t going well.”

Mulkey’s approach to coaching goes beyond the X’s and O’s. She takes time to understand each player’s personality, motivations, and challenges, tailoring her guidance to help them grow not just as athletes, but as individuals.

“She’s really made me see the bigger picture, not just about basketball but life,” Kramer continues. “Her belief in me has given me so much confidence. I know I can accomplish anything with her support.”

The coach-player relationship that Mulkey fosters is one of mutual respect, and it’s clear that Kramer is a product of that environment. Her on-court success is a testament to Mulkey’s ability to nurture talent, but it’s the off-the-court lessons that often have the greatest impact.

“I want my players to be the best versions of themselves,” Mulkey says. “If they can be great athletes, great students, and even better people, then I’ve done my job. And Kramer is a perfect example of that.”

Mulkey’s Love for Music

While Mulkey is known for her coaching acumen and fiery personality on the court, one side of her that often surprises people is her deep love for music. She has spoken in past interviews about how music has played a significant role in her life, providing both comfort and inspiration.

“I’ve always been a huge fan of music,” she shares with a smile. “I grew up listening to everything from country to rock. There’s just something about music that speaks to the soul, you know?”

Mulkey says that music has often helped her navigate the stresses and pressures of being a coach. Whether it’s listening to her favorite artists during a long bus ride or playing her guitar in the quiet of her home, music has been a constant companion.

“I love to just sit back and listen to some of my favorite songs when things get tough,” she explains. “It helps clear my mind and keeps me centered. It’s a great way to decompress.”

But Mulkey’s passion for music goes beyond simply listening. She’s also an accomplished musician herself. While she may be better known for her achievements on the basketball court, she’s no stranger to the guitar. “I’ve been playing guitar for years,” she says. “It’s something that really allows me to express myself in a different way.”

Mulkey’s love for music also extends to her team. She’s been known to surprise players with impromptu sing-alongs or even pull out her guitar during team events, creating a fun, relaxed atmosphere where her players can bond outside of basketball.

“Music brings people together, and that’s really what we’re about on this team,” Mulkey says. “Whether it’s sharing a laugh or supporting each other through the tough times, we’re a family. And music is one of the things that helps strengthen those bonds.”

The Future of LSU Women’s Basketball

Looking ahead, Mulkey has high expectations for LSU Women’s Basketball. With a talented roster and a coaching staff dedicated to building a championship-caliber program, she believes the future is bright for LSU.

“We’re building something special here at LSU, and it’s just the beginning,” Mulkey says. “We have a lot of work to do, but I believe in this team, I believe in these young women, and I believe in what we can achieve.”

For Mulkey, the journey is about more than just championships or accolades. It’s about creating an environment where players can grow, both as athletes and as people. It’s about leaving a legacy that goes beyond wins and losses and one that will inspire future generations.

“We’re creating something that will stand the test of time,” Mulkey says, her voice filled with conviction. “LSU Women’s Basketball is going to be a program that not only wins but develops strong, confident women who are ready to take on the world. That’s my ultimate goal.”

As she continues to build her legacy, Kim Mulkey remains one of the most influential and respected figures in collegiate sports. Her passion for the game, her commitment to her players, and her unwavering belief in the power of music and personal connection make her not only a great coach but also an incredible mentor and role model.