LSU Women’s Basketball and Coach Kim Mulkey Secure Commitment from No. 2 Recruit in Class of 2026, Landing in Top Six Rankings
In a monumental recruiting development that underscores the growing dominance of LSU Women’s Basketball, head coach Kim Mulkey has once again proven why her program is at the forefront of the national conversation. The Tigers have officially secured a verbal commitment from the No. 2 overall recruit in the Class of 2026, a five-star phenom widely considered one of the most complete and dynamic high school players in the country. This commitment, a major coup in an increasingly competitive recruiting landscape, has propelled LSU’s 2026 class into the top six nationally, further solidifying its status as a powerhouse destination for elite talent.
The announcement came in a flurry of excitement, as the highly touted recruit—who had been courted by nearly every major program in the country—made her commitment public via a live-streamed event held at her high school gymnasium. Clad in purple and gold, she was joined by her family, friends, and teammates, as she revealed her decision to join the LSU Tigers. The response was immediate and electric, both in the gym and across the broader basketball world, with fans, analysts, and players alike recognizing the significance of the moment.
For Kim Mulkey and her staff, this marks yet another recruiting triumph in a stretch that has seen LSU rise from a respected contender to an undeniable juggernaut. Since taking the reins in Baton Rouge in 2021, Mulkey has rebuilt the program from the ground up, instilling a culture of excellence, accountability, and ambition. With a national championship already under her belt and a reputation for developing both collegiate stars and professional-level players, Mulkey’s ability to attract top-tier recruits has become a defining aspect of her coaching legacy.
Landing the No. 2 recruit in the 2026 class is no small feat. The player in question—whose name has been featured on every major recruiting board for the past two years—boasts a rare combination of skill, athleticism, and basketball IQ. Standing at 6’2”, she has the versatility to play multiple positions, seamlessly shifting between guard and forward roles depending on the matchup. Known for her smooth shooting stroke, elite court vision, and lockdown defense, she is often described as a “program-changer”—the kind of player who can elevate an entire team from good to great.
Her commitment to LSU came after official visits to multiple blue-blood programs, including UConn, Stanford, South Carolina, and Notre Dame. Each program made a compelling case, offering championship pedigree, elite coaching, and national visibility. But in the end, it was the unique blend of culture, coaching, and opportunity in Baton Rouge that won her over. Sources close to her recruitment say that LSU’s player-centric environment, high-energy style of play, and Mulkey’s direct involvement throughout the process were key factors in her decision.
In her own words at the commitment ceremony, the future Tiger spoke about the connection she felt with the LSU coaching staff and the excitement she had for being part of something bigger than herself. “From the first time I stepped on campus, it just felt different,” she said. “Coach Mulkey made me feel like a priority, not just another player. She believes in me, and I believe in what she’s building at LSU. I want to compete for championships and be pushed every day to become the best version of myself—on and off the court.”
The announcement immediately sent shockwaves through the recruiting landscape. With the addition of the No. 2 recruit, LSU vaulted into the top six of the 2026 national recruiting rankings, a major statement about the program’s trajectory and staying power. While the 2026 class is still in flux with many top prospects yet to commit, LSU’s early momentum is already shaping the narrative of the upcoming recruiting cycle. Analysts and insiders are already predicting that LSU could finish with a top-three class by year’s end, especially if the Tigers are able to secure one or two more five-star prospects who are currently leaning toward Baton Rouge.
From a strategic standpoint, this commitment also helps LSU fill a key positional need. With several current players expected to graduate or pursue WNBA opportunities over the next two seasons, the addition of a player who can contribute immediately—and potentially start from day one—helps ensure that the Tigers remain competitive at the highest level. It also sends a clear signal to other recruits and transfers: LSU is not only serious about winning but has the talent pipeline to sustain that success.
For the recruit herself, the decision is as much about personal growth as it is about basketball success. LSU’s academic support services, commitment to mental health resources, and strong emphasis on player development were all influential in her choice. “They care about who I am as a person, not just a basketball player,” she said. “I want to be in an environment where I can grow, where I’m challenged, and where I’m surrounded by people who want to win but also want to do things the right way.”
Her high school coach, who has guided her through four years of development and national-level exposure, praised both the player and her decision. “She’s one of the most driven athletes I’ve ever coached,” he said. “This wasn’t about hype or flash for her—it was about fit, about being somewhere she can make a difference. LSU is getting a competitor, a leader, and a young woman who’s ready to leave her mark.”
Indeed, the reaction from current LSU players and alumni has been overwhelmingly positive. Several current Tigers took to social media to welcome their future teammate, while WNBA standouts with LSU ties lauded the program’s continued upward momentum. The sense of community and tradition around LSU Women’s Basketball has become a recruiting weapon in its own right, with former stars staying involved and visible, reinforcing the idea that LSU is more than just a school—it’s a family.
As for the fans, the reaction has been nothing short of euphoric. LSU’s passionate base, which has packed the Pete Maravich Assembly Center during the team’s recent rise, now has even more reason to be excited about the future. Season ticket interest for upcoming years has already spiked, and LSU merchandise sales saw a notable increase in the hours following the commitment. The program’s visibility, both locally and nationally, continues to grow at an impressive pace.
Kim Mulkey, never one to shy away from bold statements, offered her thoughts shortly after the announcement. “We don’t just want the best players—we want the right players,” she said. “This young lady is the real deal, both on the court and off. She fits our culture, she fits our vision, and she’s going to do great things here. This is just the beginning.”
Looking ahead, the commitment is expected to have a ripple effect across the college basketball world. Other recruits in the 2026 class will undoubtedly take note, as will current college players considering transfer options. With LSU’s recent championship pedigree, elite coaching staff, and now a top-six ranked recruiting class, the Tigers are emerging as the team to watch in the coming years.
This also adds another chapter to the growing lore of Kim Mulkey’s recruiting prowess. Her ability to not only identify talent but to connect with players on a personal level has become a hallmark of her coaching style. Whether at Baylor or LSU, Mulkey has consistently built teams that reflect her competitive spirit, her demand for excellence, and her deep respect for the game.
The journey for the No. 2 recruit is just beginning, but the impact of her decision is already being felt. Her commitment to LSU is more than a headline—it’s a signal to the entire women’s basketball community that the Tigers are here to stay at the top. In an increasingly crowded and competitive field, LSU’s combination of coaching, culture, and opportunity has proven to be a winning formula.
Only time will tell how the Class of 2026 ultimately shapes up, but with this foundational piece in place, LSU is already ahead of the curve. The program’s future is bright, the expectations are high, and with a top-tier recruit now officially on board, the countdown to another era of greatness in Baton Rouge has officially begun.
