In a stunning and unprecedented move that sent shockwaves through the basketball world, LSU head coach Kim Mulkey — one of the most polarizing and successful figures in women’s college basketball — has agreed to a record-breaking $40 million deal to become the next head coach and executive vice president of basketball operations for the Chicago Sky. The deal is the most lucrative ever for a women’s basketball coach and marks the first time a sitting NCAA champion head coach has left for the WNBA in such fashion.
“I’m ready to take over the pros,” Mulkey said during her introductory press conference in downtown Chicago on Monday. “I’ve built champions at Baylor and LSU. Now, it’s time to bring that same fire, that same passion, to a franchise that’s hungry for greatness. This isn’t just about basketball — it’s about making history.”
A Legacy Cemented at LSU
Mulkey’s departure comes just months after leading the LSU Tigers to their second Final Four appearance in three seasons. In her four years in Baton Rouge, Mulkey transformed LSU into a national powerhouse — and did so with her trademark flair, edge, and uncompromising drive. The Tigers won the national title in 2023 and consistently landed top-tier talent like Angel Reese, Flau’jae Johnson, and Mikaylah Williams.
Her impact extended far beyond the court. Mulkey helped elevate LSU women’s basketball into a cultural phenomenon, drawing national television audiences, packing arenas, and becoming a central figure in the rapidly growing women’s sports revolution.
LSU athletic director Scott Woodward released a statement shortly after the news broke, saying, “Kim Mulkey changed the trajectory of LSU women’s basketball forever. While we are heartbroken to see her go, we thank her for her monumental impact and wish her the very best as she makes history again at the professional level.”
The Deal: $40 Million and Full Control
Sources confirmed that the Chicago Sky offered Mulkey a five-year, $40 million package, which includes not just head coaching responsibilities, but also executive authority over roster construction and player development. It’s a bold move from a franchise that has struggled to regain elite status since winning the WNBA title in 2021.
The deal eclipses previous WNBA coaching contracts and signals a massive investment in leadership. Mulkey’s contract reportedly includes performance bonuses tied to playoff appearances, player development metrics, and community impact — a nod to the all-encompassing influence she is expected to bring to the Windy City.
“She’s more than just a coach,” said Sky owner Nadia Rawlinson. “Kim is a movement. We’re not just investing in a basketball mind — we’re investing in a brand, a culture, and a commitment to excellence.”
Reaction Across the Sports World
The announcement sparked immediate reaction from across the sports community.
WNBA legend and current South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley tweeted, “WOW. Game changer. Congrats to Kim. This will shake things up BIG time.”
Angel Reese, one of Mulkey’s former star pupils and now a rising WNBA star herself with the Chicago Sky, posted on Instagram:
“From LSU to Chi-Town — let’s run it back, Coach ➡️”
Current Sky players were informed of the move on Sunday night, with several reportedly expressing both excitement and curiosity about Mulkey’s famously intense coaching style. A source within the Sky organization said the move is expected to “completely reshape the culture and accountability” within the locker room.
Why Now?
For many insiders, the move raises a critical question: Why would Mulkey leave LSU now?
The answer, according to those close to the situation, is twofold.
First, the timing aligns with a pivotal shift in women’s sports — from college stardom to professional parity. With the WNBA seeing unprecedented growth in ratings, attendance, and sponsorship, Mulkey sees this moment as the chance to write a new chapter not just for herself, but for the league.
“Kim loves challenges,” said longtime associate and former assistant Leon Barmore. “She built Baylor. She rebuilt LSU. Now she wants to take the WNBA by storm. And she will.”
Second, it’s about legacy. Mulkey, who turns 63 later this year, has won four NCAA national championships, three with Baylor and one with LSU. She’s already a Hall of Famer. Moving to the pros — and winning there — would cement her as perhaps the greatest coach in the history of women’s basketball.
“College basketball has given me everything,” Mulkey said. “But I’m not done. I don’t want to look back and wonder what if?”
The LSU Fallout: What’s Next?
LSU now faces the daunting task of replacing the most successful head coach in program history — and doing so in an era when player movement via the transfer portal and NIL deals is more volatile than ever.
Initial reports suggest that associate head coach Bob Starkey may be named interim head coach while a national search is conducted. Starkey has over 40 years of experience and has played a key role in player development and in-game strategy.
Top potential candidates to take over permanently include:
- Kara Lawson (Duke): A Louisiana native with WNBA and NBA coaching experience.
- Amaka Agugua-Hamilton (Virginia): A rising star with SEC ties.
- Brooke Wyckoff (Florida State): An elite recruiter and proven leader in the ACC.
LSU’s highly touted 2025 recruiting class — which includes the No. 1 forward Kianni Westbrook — has not publicly commented, but sources say the university is working overtime to reassure commits and current players.
A New Era in Chicago
For the Sky, this move is about more than Xs and Os. It’s a full-throttle, go-for-broke push to revitalize the franchise — and the city’s enthusiasm for women’s basketball. The team has struggled with inconsistency, ownership turnover, and roster shakeups since Candace Parker’s departure.
Mulkey’s arrival signals a pivot toward elite expectations. And if there’s anyone who knows how to win — and do so loudly — it’s her.
“She brings star power,” said ESPN’s Rebecca Lobo. “Love her or hate her, you’ll watch her. That’s gold for the WNBA.”
The Challenge Ahead
Mulkey inherits a roster with promise, including Angel Reese, Marina Mabrey, Elizabeth Williams, and rookies Kamilla Cardoso and Brynna Maxwell. Still, questions abound: Can her college-style motivation translate to a professional locker room? Will her authoritarian approach resonate with seasoned vets?
WNBA coaches often walk a fine line between tactical genius and player empowerment. Mulkey’s history suggests she thrives on control and intensity — traits that can either galvanize or fracture pro rosters.
Still, few doubt her ability to adapt.
“She’s a brilliant basketball mind,” said Candace Parker. “If she evolves and listens, she can be a force in this league.”
Women’s Basketball at a Crossroads
Mulkey’s move is symbolic of a broader moment in women’s sports. With record-breaking NIL deals, groundbreaking media coverage, and surging fan engagement, the lines between college and professional stardom are blurring fast.
The WNBA, once perceived as a postscript to college glory, is now rising as the premier stage — and Mulkey’s arrival amplifies that transition.
“She’s helping elevate the league,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “And she’s bringing millions of eyes with her.”
Mulkey herself addressed the moment plainly:
“This isn’t a step down. It’s a step forward. For me. For women. For basketball.”
Final Thoughts: Mulkey’s Next Mountain
Kim Mulkey has climbed every mountain in college basketball. She’s cut nets, made headlines, and sparked debates. Now, she embarks on her most daring expedition yet: mastering the WNBA, a league evolving faster than ever before.
If history is any indicator, Mulkey won’t just survive the jump — she’ll dominate it.
And if she brings another title to Chicago, she won’t just be a legend of the college game — she’ll be a cross-level icon.
