“Back Where She Belongs”: Seimone Augustus Named LSU’s Director of Player Development
BATON ROUGE, Louisiana — In a move that has sent waves of excitement throughout the LSU campus and the wider women’s basketball community, the LSU Tigers have announced that Seimone Augustus — one of the most iconic figures in program history — is returning home. This time, not as a player, but as the newly appointed Director of Player Development for the LSU women’s basketball team.
For a program with championship aspirations and a passionate fanbase, bringing back one of the greatest players in women’s basketball history is more than just a headline — it’s a homecoming rooted in legacy, leadership, and love for the game.
A Full-Circle Moment
When Seimone Augustus walked the campus of LSU as a player two decades ago, she was more than just a star — she was a symbol of hope, pride, and elite excellence. Hailing from Baton Rouge, Augustus chose to stay home and represent Louisiana on the national stage, a decision that helped elevate LSU women’s basketball to new heights.
Now, Augustus returns to the same campus halls not as an 18-year-old phenom but as a mentor and guide for the next generation of Tigers. For her, it’s about giving back. For LSU, it’s about weaving its golden past into its bright present.
“This is a full-circle moment for me,” Augustus said in a statement. “LSU gave me the opportunity to chase my dreams and grow as a player and person. I’m honored to return in this role and help guide our student-athletes not just as players, but as people. I’ve lived their journey. Now I want to be there to support them every step of the way.”
A Legend’s Resume
Seimone Augustus is no ordinary alum. She is a bona fide legend whose name is synonymous with success.
At LSU, she was a two-time National Player of the Year, a three-time All-American, and led the Tigers to three consecutive Final Four appearances (2004, 2005, and 2006). Her blend of smooth shooting, graceful athleticism, and unflappable leadership helped redefine what women’s basketball could look like — particularly in the South.
Augustus graduated from LSU in 2006 and was selected No. 1 overall in the WNBA Draft by the Minnesota Lynx. Over a storied professional career that spanned 15 seasons, she racked up accolades including:
- 4× WNBA Champion (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017)
- 8× WNBA All-Star
- 2011 WNBA Finals MVP
- 3× Olympic Gold Medalist (2008, 2012, 2016)
- 2023 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee
Her career is nothing short of trailblazing. And her return to LSU marks the arrival of not just a decorated athlete but a role model whose lived experience in both collegiate and professional basketball can offer an invaluable roadmap for LSU’s current roster.
A Strategic Move by Kim Mulkey
For LSU head coach Kim Mulkey, adding Augustus to her staff wasn’t just a feel-good story — it was a strategic move to enrich a culture built on championship expectations.
“Seimone is LSU royalty,” said Mulkey. “She knows what it means to wear purple and gold. She knows what it takes to win at the highest levels. But more than that, she knows how to connect with our players, understand their journeys, and prepare them for life on and off the court. Having her on this staff elevates everything we do.”
Mulkey, who has already delivered a national title and recruited some of the most high-profile talents in women’s basketball, understands the importance of mentorship, continuity, and legacy. In Augustus, she’s found someone who embodies all three.
The Director of Player Development role is multifaceted — it involves helping student-athletes navigate academic demands, personal growth, professional aspirations, and overall wellness. Augustus, who’s lived through every stage of that journey, is uniquely qualified to guide them.
Impact on the Players
Perhaps no group is more excited about Augustus’ return than the players themselves. In an era where NIL, mental health, and media exposure present new challenges for student-athletes, having someone like Augustus in their corner provides an immeasurable boost.
Senior forward Angel Reese, who has herself become a household name, posted on social media: “A LEGEND is in the building. What an honor to learn from Seimone Augustus. Let’s get to work!”
Sophomore guard Mikaylah Williams added, “Growing up, I watched Seimone highlights to inspire me. Now she’s in the gym with us. That’s surreal.”
It’s one thing to bring in a motivational speaker for a day. It’s another to have that person embedded in your program daily — watching film with you, guiding you through a tough practice, helping you manage personal stress, and reminding you that greatness takes time and toughness.
Representation Matters
Seimone Augustus’ return to LSU also carries profound symbolic significance. As a Black woman who has broken barriers in sport, fashion, and culture — and who came out publicly as gay at a time when it was far less common in women’s sports — Augustus represents authenticity and courage.
She has become a voice for the voiceless and a leader in spaces beyond basketball, including gender equality, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and racial justice.
“Representation matters,” Augustus once said in an interview. “When I was growing up, I didn’t see enough people who looked like me doing the things I dreamed about. I want to be that presence for others.”
Her role at LSU will allow her to be exactly that. A presence. A mentor. A lifeline. A symbol of what’s possible.
More Than Basketball
It’s easy to look at this hire through a purely basketball lens, but Augustus’ impact promises to extend well beyond the hardwood.
In her role, she’ll work with LSU’s support staff to help players develop holistically — building life skills, managing media attention, developing financial literacy, and preparing for careers beyond sport. Whether an athlete’s journey continues in the WNBA or takes them to the corporate world, Augustus is there to help equip them with the tools they need.
LSU Athletic Director Scott Woodward said it best: “We’re not just in the business of winning games. We’re in the business of preparing leaders. Seimone Augustus is a leader who leads by example — and we’re thrilled to welcome her back to the LSU family.”
A Boost for Recruiting
Seimone Augustus’ presence also strengthens LSU’s recruiting pitch. Imagine sitting across from a five-star high school player in a living room and saying, “You’ll be mentored by a Hall of Famer who once sat where you are now.”
That’s a game-changer.
In an increasingly competitive recruiting landscape, intangible assets like legacy, mentorship, and trust matter. Augustus brings all three — and her story speaks volumes to prospective players and their families.
Baton Rouge Reacts
Back in her hometown, the news of Augustus’ return has been met with widespread joy. Local media outlets, former players, high school coaches, and longtime fans have flooded social media with messages of support and excitement.
“Welcome home, Seimone!” read a massive banner outside a popular local diner.
“This is where she belongs,” said Coach Darrell Mitchell, who coached against Augustus in her high school days. “She’s not just a basketball legend — she’s a Baton Rouge icon. She’s always carried this city with pride, and now she gets to pour that love back into LSU.”
Looking Ahead
With Augustus on the sideline and Mulkey at the helm, LSU women’s basketball enters its next chapter with momentum, experience, and an unmistakable energy. The Tigers have championship talent, national spotlight, and now — more than ever — championship leadership.
And for Seimone Augustus, it’s not just a job. It’s a mission.
“I want these young women to know they’re not alone,” Augustus said. “Whatever they’re going through — on the court or off — I’ve probably been there. I want to listen. I want to uplift. I want to help them become the best version of themselves.”
As the new Director of Player Development, Seimone Augustus is back at LSU — not to rewrite history, but to help others write theirs.
Welcome home, legend.
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