
CONGRATULATIONS: LSU Legendary Head Coach Kim Mulkey Honored for Fourth Time in Career with Prestigious Winged Foot Award for Excellence in College Basketball
In yet another remarkable achievement that cements her legendary status in women’s college basketball, LSU head coach Kim Mulkey has been honored for the fourth time in her illustrious career with the prestigious Winged Foot Award. The award, presented annually by the New York Athletic Club, recognizes the national championship-winning coach in both men’s and women’s NCAA basketball. With this latest honor, Mulkey joins an exclusive group of coaching greats who have not only dominated the sport but also left an indelible legacy of excellence and leadership.
The Winged Foot Award, which has become one of the most respected honors in collegiate sports, acknowledges the strategic brilliance, leadership, and championship pedigree of the coach who leads their team to the NCAA title. Mulkey previously earned the honor three times during her exceptional tenure at Baylor University. Her fourth Winged Foot Award comes as a result of guiding the LSU Lady Tigers to the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship—LSU’s first in program history.
Mulkey’s impact on the LSU program has been both immediate and transformational. Since arriving in Baton Rouge in 2021, she has revitalized a program that had struggled for relevance in recent years. Her championship mindset, elite recruiting, and signature fiery passion on the sidelines quickly elevated LSU to a national powerhouse. In just her second season at the helm, she brought home the national title, defeating Iowa 102-85 in one of the most memorable NCAA women’s championship games in history.
The Winged Foot Award ceremony, held at the New York Athletic Club in Manhattan, was a celebration of not only LSU’s national triumph but also Mulkey’s consistent excellence across decades. In her acceptance speech, Mulkey was characteristically emotional and reflective, praising her players, coaching staff, and the LSU administration for their belief in her vision.
“This award is never about me—it’s about the young women who lace up their shoes every day and put in the work,” Mulkey said. “It’s about a team coming together and doing something special. I’m just honored to be a small part of their journey.”
Indeed, the 2023 championship run was defined by resilience, heart, and a flair for the dramatic—attributes that mirror Mulkey’s own coaching persona. LSU’s roster, featuring stars like Angel Reese, Alexis Morris, and Flau’jae Johnson, brought a perfect blend of swagger and substance to the court. Under Mulkey’s guidance, they played with intensity, poise, and a chip on their shoulder, embracing the underdog role and proving doubters wrong with each step through the NCAA tournament.
Beyond the Xs and Os, Mulkey’s presence has energized the LSU fan base, reinvigorated women’s basketball in Louisiana, and drawn national attention to the sport. Her vibrant outfits, animated coaching style, and unapologetic confidence have made her one of the most recognizable figures in college athletics. But beneath the flamboyance is a deeply committed coach who demands excellence and delivers results.
The Winged Foot Award also underscores Mulkey’s status as one of the greatest coaches in the history of women’s college basketball. She is the only person in NCAA history to win a national championship as a player, assistant coach, and head coach. With four national titles to her name—three at Baylor and one at LSU—her place in the pantheon of coaching greats is beyond dispute.
This most recent accolade serves as yet another milestone in a career defined by trailblazing success. With recruiting classes continuing to rank among the nation’s best and a returning core of talent for the upcoming season, LSU is expected to contend for another deep tournament run. And with Kim Mulkey leading the charge, the Lady Tigers are never far from greatness.
As LSU fans, alumni, and the broader college basketball world celebrate this latest honor, it is clear that Mulkey’s story is far from over. Her passion, intensity, and winning spirit continue to elevate the game—and now, with a fourth Winged Foot Award in hand, she stands as a beacon of what relentless dedication and vision can achieve.
Congratulations, Coach Mulkey—you’ve once again soared to new heights.
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