BREAKING NEWS: LSU Tigers Women’s Basketball Head Coach Kim Mulkey Sends Shockwaves Through NBA World by Boldly Turning Down Massive $45 Million Offer from Phoenix Suns and…
In a move that has sent ripples through the sports world, LSU Tigers Women’s Basketball Head Coach Kim Mulkey has reportedly turned down a jaw-dropping $45 million contract offer from the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, reaffirming her unwavering commitment to Louisiana State University. The unprecedented offer, believed to be one of the largest ever extended to a women’s basketball coach for a potential jump to the NBA, was ultimately met with a firm and impassioned “no” from Mulkey.
“I have no plans of leaving—this is home,” Mulkey declared in a statement released Tuesday morning. “LSU is more than just a job to me. It’s where my heart is. Coaching these young women, building this program, and being part of this community means more than any paycheck ever could.”
The Suns’ Unlikely Offer
Sources close to the situation revealed that the Phoenix Suns approached Mulkey after a series of internal discussions about revamping their coaching staff following a disappointing playoff exit. The Suns, who have undergone a whirlwind of leadership changes over the past two seasons, were reportedly drawn to Mulkey’s fiery leadership style, championship pedigree, and proven ability to turn programs into dynasties.
Team executives were said to be impressed not only by her three national titles at Baylor and her recent 2023 championship with LSU, but also by her magnetic influence and ability to build winning cultures. The Suns allegedly hoped to make a bold, history-making hire by offering Mulkey the helm of an NBA franchise—an uncharted path for any women’s college basketball coach.
Fans and Analysts React
Mulkey’s decision has sparked widespread reaction from both college basketball and NBA circles. LSU fans celebrated the announcement, flooding social media with messages of support and gratitude. Many praised her loyalty to the program and her belief in the mission she began when she joined LSU in 2021.
“Coach Mulkey is LSU through and through,” tweeted ESPN analyst Andraya Carter. “She’s building something special, and turning down $45 million proves she’s not done yet.”
In contrast, NBA analysts were stunned by the rejection of such a massive offer, highlighting the rarity of a coach bypassing an opportunity to cross into the NBA with such a lucrative contract on the table.
“Unprecedented,” said NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski during a segment on SportsCenter. “This wasn’t just about money. It was a historic opportunity. But Kim Mulkey is a different kind of leader—her decision speaks volumes about her priorities and her love for college basketball.”
Mulkey’s Legacy at LSU
Since joining LSU, Kim Mulkey has transformed the women’s basketball program into a national powerhouse. Under her guidance, the Tigers claimed the 2023 NCAA Women’s Championship—LSU’s first-ever in the sport—and have continued to dominate the SEC with an aggressive style of play and unrelenting drive.
Beyond her tactical brilliance, Mulkey has been a cultural force at LSU, bringing attention, passion, and record-breaking crowds to women’s college basketball in Baton Rouge. Her distinctive fashion, fierce personality, and commitment to her players have made her a fan favorite and a national icon.
Staying the Course
With her decision to remain at LSU, Mulkey now turns her focus to the upcoming season, where the Tigers are again expected to contend for national honors. Her return brings stability to a program that has grown to reflect her intense spirit and championship mentality.
“This isn’t the end of the story,” Mulkey added. “It’s just the next chapter. We’re not done making history at LSU.”
As the NBA continues its offseason search for leadership, the college game has scored a major win—keeping one of its most magnetic figures right where she belongs.
