ESPN REPORT: LSU Women’s Basketball Coach Kim Mulkey Shocks College Hoops by Turning Down $20.5M NBA Offer from Tennessee and Notre Dame to Stay at LSU: “I Have No Plans Beyond Coaching Here” – Full Story
In a stunning move that rippled through the college basketball world, LSU women’s basketball head coach Kim Mulkey has declined a massive $20.5 million offer that would have seen her step into a major NBA development role backed by both the Tennessee Volunteers and Notre Dame. Mulkey, one of the sport’s most decorated coaches, reaffirmed her loyalty to LSU during a press conference, declaring, “I have no plans beyond being the LSU women’s basketball head coach.”
The lucrative offer, which would have made Mulkey the highest-paid woman to transition into professional men’s basketball coaching, aimed to place her in a leadership position as part of a unique partnership between Tennessee and Notre Dame, designed to revolutionize NBA player development. Mulkey was their clear top choice for the ambitious project.
Nevertheless, Mulkey’s deep Louisiana roots and fierce loyalty to LSU led her to reject the offer without hesitation. “LSU isn’t just a job—it’s home, it’s family,” she said.
Since arriving at LSU in 2021, Mulkey has transformed the program, guiding the Lady Tigers to a 2023 national championship and restoring them as a national powerhouse. Her fiery coaching style and knack for player development have made her one of the most influential figures in women’s college basketball today.
The rejected proposal from Tennessee and Notre Dame reportedly involved Mulkey spearheading a new NBA-affiliated women’s development league while helping shape a hybrid elite talent system, with complete autonomy over staffing and program design—an unprecedented opportunity valued at $20.5 million over five years.
Yet Mulkey made it clear that her work at LSU is far from finished. “We’re just getting started,” she told the media. “We have recruits who will change the game, a loyal fan base, and more championships to chase—right here at LSU.”
Her decision comes at a critical moment for LSU as the program reloads for a run at another deep NCAA Tournament appearance in 2025. Mulkey’s stability offers a huge boost for recruiting and solidifies LSU’s standing among the elite.
Fans throughout Baton Rouge and beyond erupted with support, praising her loyalty as rare and inspiring at a time when money often drives coaching moves. Alumni and supporters alike hailed her choice as a testament to legacy, values, and a deep commitment to the next generation of female athletes.
LSU Athletic Director Scott Woodward praised Mulkey, stating, “Kim Mulkey is the heart of our women’s basketball program. Her commitment speaks volumes about her love for LSU and the incredible future she’s building here.”
With this emphatic decision, Kim Mulkey not only chose to stay at LSU—she reinforced her place as one of the most passionate, loyal, and influential leaders in women’s sports, reminding everyone that sometimes, loyalty and home mean far more than money.
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