Kim Mulkey Praises New LSU Transfer While Sending Subtle Jab at Dawn Stale…Read More….

Kim Mulkey Praises New LSU Transfer While Sending Subtle Jab at Dawn Stale…Read More….

LSU head coach Kim Mulkey is once again proving she knows how to dominate both on the court and in the headlines. While introducing her newest roster addition — a former South Carolina Gamecocks standout — Mulkey managed to deliver high praise for her new player, all while sprinkling in what many fans are calling a not-so-subtle shot at rival coach Dawn Staley.

The rivalry between Mulkey and Staley has been simmering for years, fueled by recruiting battles, postseason clashes, and the two programs’ race for SEC supremacy. With South Carolina and LSU now firmly established as the faces of women’s college basketball, every comment and roster move draws national attention. This latest storyline is no different.

During a media availability in Baton Rouge, Mulkey was asked about the impact of her latest transfer addition, an ex-Gamecock star whose decision to leave Columbia shocked many in women’s basketball circles. Mulkey didn’t hold back.

“She’s one of the most versatile players I’ve ever coached,” Mulkey said. “Sometimes, talent doesn’t get fully appreciated where it is, and I think she’s going to shine in our system. We’re going to put her in positions to succeed and let her show everything she can do.”

The remark immediately raised eyebrows. Many interpreted the phrase ‘doesn’t get fully appreciated where it is’ as a dig at Staley and the way she managed her Gamecocks roster last season. While Mulkey never mentioned Staley’s name directly, the implication was clear to SEC insiders: LSU believes it can get more out of South Carolina’s former star than Staley ever did.

This transfer could be a game-changer for the Tigers. After losing several key contributors to graduation and the WNBA, LSU has been reloading quickly through both high school recruiting and the transfer portal. Adding a proven SEC player with championship experience gives Mulkey an edge as she prepares for another title run.

“She brings leadership, toughness, and a winning mentality,” Mulkey added. “That’s the kind of player you want in your locker room when the lights are brightest.”

For the player herself, the move represents both a fresh start and a bold challenge. While she excelled in Columbia, she often played in the shadow of South Carolina’s bigger names. At LSU, she’s expected to have a starring role, something she openly admitted was a factor in her decision.

“I loved my time at South Carolina, but I’m ready to write a new chapter,” she said in her first comments as a Tiger. “Coach Mulkey believes in me, and I believe in what LSU is building.”

The timing of the transfer adds more fuel to an already fiery rivalry. Just last season, LSU and South Carolina clashed in one of the most talked-about SEC battles of the year, with both coaches exchanging heated words during the buildup. The fact that Mulkey now has one of Staley’s former stars only adds intrigue to their next matchup.

Fans on social media quickly picked up on the tension. LSU supporters praised Mulkey for her recruiting savvy and confidence, while Gamecocks fans accused her of taking unnecessary shots at Staley. Neutral observers, meanwhile, simply marveled at how the drama continues to elevate women’s basketball to must-watch status.

Regardless of interpretation, one thing is clear: Kim Mulkey knows how to keep the spotlight on LSU. Whether her latest comments were calculated shade or simply competitive pride, she has once again positioned herself — and her program — at the center of the women’s basketball conversation.

As the SEC season approaches, one date will be circled in red: LSU vs. South Carolina. With Mulkey’s newest star facing her former team, and with Mulkey and Staley’s war of words simmering in the background, it promises to be one of the most anticipated showdowns of the year.