Born: 1962 (Tickfaw, Louisiana)
Biography:
Kimberly Duane Mulkey (born May 17, 1962) is an American college basketball coach and former player. She is best known as the head coach for Louisiana State University’s women’s basketball team. With a career that spans both playing and coaching, Mulkey has achieved numerous accolades and made significant contributions to women’s basketball.
Mulkey’s basketball journey began at a young age. She was one of the first girls in the U.S. to play organized basketball with boys. Growing up in Tickfaw, Louisiana, Mulkey attended Nesom Junior High School, where she showcased her talent and passion for the game. Her skills quickly caught the attention of many, and Mulkey became a star player for her high school team at Hammond High School. She led her team to four consecutive state championships, leaving an indelible mark on Louisiana basketball.
In addition to her success on the court, Mulkey excelled academically. She graduated as valedictorian of her high school class, boasting a perfect 4.0 GPA. This commitment to excellence carried over into her college years at Louisiana Tech University. Standing at just 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 meters), Mulkey defied expectations and became an All-American point guard for the Lady Techsters.
During her time at Louisiana Tech, Mulkey won two national championships as a player. In 1981, she helped secure the AIAW title, and the following year, she played a crucial role in capturing the inaugural NCAA title in 1982. Mulkey’s talent and leadership on the court earned her the inaugural Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award, recognizing the top college senior under 5’6/1.68 m. Her success as a player set the foundation for her future accomplishments in coaching.
After graduating, Mulkey joined the coaching staff at Louisiana Tech as an assistant in 1985. Under the guidance of head coach Leon Barmore, Mulkey further honed her coaching skills and became the associate head coach in 1996. During her 15-year tenure as an assistant and associate head coach, the Lady Techsters achieved remarkable success, posting an impressive 430–68 record and advancing to seven Final Fours. Mulkey played an integral role in leading the team to the 1988 NCAA Championship, solidifying her reputation as a talented and accomplished coach.
Mulkey’s contributions to basketball extend beyond the collegiate level. In 1983, she was selected to represent the United States at the Pan American Games held in Caracas, Venezuela. As a member of the team, she played a key role in capturing the gold medal. Mulkey also had the honor of representing the USA National team in the 1983 World Championships held in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Although the team faced a tough loss to the Soviet Union, Mulkey’s performance throughout the tournament demonstrated her skill and versatility as a player.
After a successful career as an assistant coach and player, Mulkey took on the challenge of becoming a head coach. In 2000, she was appointed as the head coach of the Baylor University women’s basketball team. Under her leadership, the team experienced unprecedented success, winning NCAA championships in 2005, 2012, and 2019. Mulkey’s ability to build a competitive program and develop talented athletes earned her widespread recognition and acclaim.
In 2023, Mulkey transitioned to LSU as the head coach of their women’s basketball team. Her impact on the program was immediate, as she guided the team to another NCAA championship, solidifying her status as a remarkable coach capable of achieving success at multiple institutions.
Mulkey’s contributions to the sport of basketball were recognized with inductions into both the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020. These honors reflect her profound influence on the game and highlight her role in shaping the history of women’s basketball in the United States.
Awards:
– Pan American Games Gold Medalist (1983)
– NCAA National Championships as a Coach (2005, 2012, 2019, 2023)
– Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee (2000)
– Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee (2020)