LSU Women’s Basketball Coach Comments on Coaching Speculation
After the Tigers’ impressive 101-71 victory against Tulane, LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey took a moment to commend Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin during her press conference. This comes amid talk that Kiffin is a potential candidate for coaching roles at both the University of Florida and LSU’s football programs.
“Let’s see who made the trip to New Orleans,” Mulkey remarked, glancing at the assembled reporters, teasingly noting that Tulane is only about a 90-minute drive from Baton Rouge.
“So, who here is from Baton Rouge? Just three of you? You all have my love, and I’ll let you have the first interview,” she continued, laughing. “Well, it’s nice to see who’s in attendance today.”
She hinted that many back home might be curious about Kiffin’s future, saying, “I know you’re all wondering whether to hire Lane Kiffin. Oops! Did I just let that slip?” She laughed again, adding, “He was in Gainesville on Sunday.”
Mulkey’s comments were playful and, perhaps, a little pointed. She was likely alluding to Ole Miss’ recent victory over Florida, where they won 34-24. It was reported that Kiffin’s family was flown in for visits to both Baton Rouge and Gainesville, although he did not participate in either trip.
According to some sources, Kiffin was in Baton Rouge on Monday for a tour before heading to Gainesville the previous day.
Both programs are currently looking for head coaches after Florida State parted ways with Billy Napier in October, followed by LSU cutting ties with Brian Kelly shortly thereafter.
On “The Pat McAfee Show,” Kiffin refuted claims from The Athletic suggesting he had received an ultimatum from Ole Miss regarding his future, particularly with an upcoming game against rival Mississippi State on November 28. “There was no ultimatum or anything like that,” said Kiffin, adding, “I’m not sure where that came from. We just enjoy ourselves here.”
Kiffin emphasized that he’s focused on the Rebels, who are currently 10-1. “It doesn’t get any better than this. Our fans have waited for this, and now we’re in it,” he expressed. “We’re prepared, enjoying a bye week, and we’ll likely see some teams falter. We’re not losing this Saturday. We’ll win the Egg Bowl and bring the trophy back where it belongs.”
With a win against Mississippi State next week, the No. 6 Rebels could secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.
