She stalks the sidelines like a conductor leading a high-stakes orchestra, every gesture as loud as a buzzer-beater. Kim Mulkey doesn’t just coach—she performs, her emotions playing out in real-time, a spectacle as riveting as the game itself. During LSU’s clash with Kentucky, the cameras caught her in peak form—an icy, wide-eyed glare that had social media in stitches. But while the internet had its fun, Mulkey was busy doing what she does best: winning. With her 750th career victory, the joke was on everyone else. The real question is—who’s laughing now?
According to a post on X by sports photographer Bri Lewerke, “This pan to Kim Mulkey is some of the best camera work I’ve ever seen.” The accompanying clip captured a perfectly timed shot of Mulkey’s deadpan glare during LSU’s first-half struggles.
With about five and a half minutes left in the second quarter, Kentucky’s Georgia Amoore kicked the ball out to Clara Silva, who drained a jump shot from the baseline.
This pan to Kim Mulkey is some of the best camera work I’ve ever seen pic.twitter.com/JhzMR1PBmU
— Bri Lewerke (@brilewerke) February 23, 2025
As the ESPN broadcast cut to replay, the camera seamlessly panned from Silva’s made shot to Mulkey (now 118-16, at LSU) standing behind her, expression frozen in a glare that could cut glass.
Fans React: Mulkey’s viral moment takes center stage
Fans wasted no time turning Mulkey’s reactions into comedy gold. One user quipped, “Kim Mulkey always looks pissed off,” and in this case, she had every reason to be. LSU trailed 38-22 in the first half, struggling against a Kentucky team that shot six for 36 from beyond the arc but still managed to dominate early. Amoore led the Wildcats with 16 points, but her inefficiency (6-of-22 shooting) left the door open for LSU to stage a comeback. And that’s exactly what happened.
LSU guard Kailyn Gilbert (16) smiles after making the game-winning shot during a women’s college basketball game between the Lady Vols and LSU at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025.
Another fan joked, “I fear Kim Mulkey more than I do the orange cheese puff running this country.” The comparison wasn’t just about her fiery personality—it extended to her signature hairstyle, which, much like a certain political figure’s, is impossible to ignore. But while Mulkey’s fashion and hair choices often make headlines, her leadership is what truly defines her. With LSU boasting a 27-2 record this season—its only losses coming against UCLA and South Carolina—Mulkey’s intensity is clearly paying off.
A third fan labeled her “the ultimate drama queen” and added, “Never change.” Mulkey’s courtside presence is nothing short of theatrical. Whether she’s scowling at referees, barking instructions, or delivering icy stares, she embodies the passion that fuels LSU’s success. But while her reactions may be exaggerated, they’re also justified for the ….first half. The Tigers clawed their way back into the game, outscoring Kentucky 23-6 in the third quarter and sealing a dramatic 65-58 victory.
One of the more creative fan reactions came in the form of a pop culture comparison: “Kim Mulkey look like if Leslie Knope’s passion was basketball instead of local politics.” The Parks and Recreation character, played by Amy Poehler, is known for her relentless enthusiasm and no-nonsense attitude—traits Mulkey shares in abundance. If Leslie Knope traded local politics for basketball, she’d be Kim Mulkey. Relentless enthusiasm, deadpan stares, high drama—the only difference? Knope fuels up on waffles, Mulkey on pure competitive fire.
Mulkey’s 750th win, which boosts her winning percentage to 86% is more than just a number—it’s a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence. Mikaylah Williams, who scored 15 of her 24 points after halftime fueled LSU’s second-half resurgence. Flau’Jae Johnson contributed 13 points and 13 rebounds, helping the Tigers dominate the boards and flip the script on Kentucky. The Wildcats, hindered by foul trouble and cold shooting, couldn’t withstand LSU’s late surge.
While social media had its fun, Mulkey ultimately walked away with the win—and a milestone to match. With 750 career victories and a top-four SEC Tournament seed secured, she remains one of the most successful coaches in the game. Her sideline antics may provide endless entertainment, but her results speak for themselves.
Love her or laugh at her, Kim Mulkey isn’t changing anytime soon. And for LSU, that’s exactly what they need.
The post Animated Kim Mulkey Becomes a Laughing Stock for College Basketball Fans Despite a Major 750th Achievement appeared first on EssentiallySports.
