“Losses would eat on me”: When LSU HC Kim Mulkey talked about her approach after Angel Reese and co won the National Championship

Kim Mulkey has a storied coaching career, spanning over three decades with championship wins at Baylor and LSU. She secured her first national title in 2005 with Baylor, followed by two more in 2012 and 2019, and claimed another with the Tigers in 2023.

Mulkey sat down with Chessa Bouche of BRProud News in May 2023 to discuss her national title with the Tigers, her coaching philosophy, and the keys to her sustained success.

When asked about her ability to "take it in" and relax after winning another championship, Mulkey acknowledged that it has been a journey for her to learn how to do that effectively.

"You have to do it. You have to let losses go," Mulkey said (21:11). "Losses would eat on me, and I said the first few years of my coaching career, 'I can't do this; I'm going to die an early death.'"

"They still eat on me, and I still have my notebook and my pen next to my bed so that I can write notes in the middle of the night when things come into my head. But I've learned to let things like losses leave so I can prepare for the next game. It doesn't eat on me as much."

"That's a personality trait, and as a coach, you continue to mature, you continue to grow, and I think in order for me to enjoy it, I need to take "me time" more often."

Former LSU star Angel Reese was a key part of the Tigers' 2023 title run, averaging 23.0 points, 15.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game.

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Kim Mulkey highlighted emotional connections behind every championship victory

Kim Mulkey has won national championships as both a player and a coach, and each title holds a special place in her heart. Speaking with BRProud News' Chessa Bouche, she reflected on the personal connections that make each championship achievement meaningful.

"The one that means the most to me is when I look across at fans who are experiencing it for the first time ever," she said (1:37). "To do it for the first time ever in the history of basketball at LSU — those are the things that just mean so much to me."

"I never compare championships, that’s like comparing your children — you don’t do it. You love them for different reasons."

Kim Mulkey and the No. 6 Lady Tigers are eyeing another run at a national title this season. Led by players like Flau'jae Johnson, Aneesah Morrow and Kailyn Gilbert, LSU has all the pieces to make a deep tournament push. The team has been in outstanding form — boasting an undefeated 18-0 record so far.