BREAKING NEWS: LSU’s Kim Mulkey Turns Down $45 Million NBA Offer from Phoenix Suns, Declares LSU Her Forever Home
In a jaw-dropping revelation that has left both the college and professional basketball worlds stunned, LSU Tigers women’s basketball head coach Kim Mulkey has reportedly rejected a jaw-dropping $45 million offer from the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, reaffirming her commitment to the LSU program and sending a loud, clear message: “I have no plans of leaving—this is home.”
The blockbuster offer, first reported by ESPN insiders late Thursday night, would have made Mulkey the highest-paid coach in women’s basketball history—and one of the highest across all of college and professional hoops. Sources indicate the Suns were aggressively courting Mulkey for a historic role in their front office and player development, a potential trailblazing move aimed at bringing her winning pedigree and fierce leadership to the NBA.
But in classic Mulkey fashion, the Hall of Fame coach didn’t flinch. Instead, she doubled down on her roots, passion, and vision for the LSU women’s basketball dynasty she has been meticulously crafting since arriving in Baton Rouge in 2021.
“There’s no amount of money that can replace what LSU means to me,” Mulkey said in an emotional statement Friday morning. “This isn’t just a job. It’s family. It’s culture. It’s legacy. I’ve planted roots here, and I plan to keep building this program into the greatest force in women’s college basketball history.”
A Loyalty That Defies the Modern Coaching Carousel
Mulkey’s decision comes at a time when college coaching tenures are often fleeting, with top coaches lured by lucrative contracts and professional opportunities. Yet, at a moment when she could’ve cashed in and made history by jumping to the NBA, Mulkey chose something far more rare—loyalty.
Already a three-time national champion (including her 2023 title with LSU), Mulkey is revered for her unapologetic fire, bold fashion statements, and relentless demand for excellence. Her presence has not only transformed LSU into a national powerhouse but has also elevated the visibility of women’s basketball in the South and across the country.
Reactions Pour In From All Corners
The news sent a ripple effect through social media, with fans, players, and analysts weighing in on Mulkey’s stunning commitment.
“Wow. That’s a legend move,” tweeted ESPN’s Holly Rowe. “Kim Mulkey just told the sports world that purpose > paycheck.”
LSU athletic director Scott Woodward praised the coach, calling her “the heart of LSU athletics,” and noting, “Her loyalty and passion set the gold standard. We are blessed to have her leading our program.”
NBA pundits, meanwhile, expressed shock. “I thought it was a done deal. She would’ve been a game-changer for the NBA,” said analyst Kendrick Perkins. “But her love for LSU? It’s real. It’s powerful.”
The Dynasty Continues
With a top-three recruiting class on the way, including high school phenom Aniyah Mitchell, and superstar Hailey Van Lith returning, Mulkey’s Tigers are primed for another national title run. And now, with her future at LSU secure, fans can dream even bigger.
One thing is certain: Kim Mulkey isn’t going anywhere—and neither is her fire to bring even more glory to LSU.
