“Can’t Quit Thinking”: Kim Mulkey’s Heart-Wrenching Breakdown Over Tragic New Orleans Attack Amid LSU’s Commanding SEC Opener

LSU tipped off their SEC play against Arkansas on Thursday night with a commanding performance, stretching their impressive unbeaten streak to 16 games. But the victory came under the shadow of tragedy. Just a day earlier, a devastating attack shook New Orleans, another city close to home in Louisiana. Therefore, when head coach Kim Mulkey stepped up to the podium after the game, the weight of the heartbreaking news was evident.

Fighting back tears, she struggled to contain her emotions while addressing the events that had unfolded. “I can’t quit thinking about it. It’s so close to home. It hits you right smack in the face. You get emotional. I cannot imagine those families and what they’re having to deal with,” Mulkey told media.

The attack on New Year’s Day at Bourbon Street left at least 14 lives tragically lost, casting a somber shadow over the start of the year. For LSU, the tragedy hit uncomfortably close to home—just 82 miles separated the team’s arena from the scene of the devastating events.

It’s no wonder Kim Mulkey appeared deeply affected, her emotions mirroring the collective grief of a community in mourning. Her heartfelt empathy for the victims was palpable, a reflection of the shared pain felt throughout Louisiana. Having spent much of her childhood in Tickfaw, Louisiana, she understands the closeness of these communities. She grew up playing basketball at Nesom Junior High School in Tickfaw before leading her Hammond High School team to four consecutive state championships.

This connection to the area only deepened her heartfelt response to the events. Yet, amid the sorrow, there was a silver lining for Mulkey: her LSU team continued to perform with excellence, opening their SEC season with another commanding victory, extending their unbeaten streak.

LSU dominates Arkansas with a 98-64 victory

In one of their most dominant performances under Coach Kim Mulkey, LSU secured a 49-point lead, marking their fourth-most lopsided regular-season victory over an SEC opponent. The Tigers built momentum in the second quarter, with a 10-0 run that left Arkansas (7-9) reeling. Williams sparked the rally with a smooth mid-range jumper at the 1:22 mark, capping off the run.

Flau’jae Johnson ignited the surge by driving to the basket and drawing a foul, while Kailyn Gilbert added a jumper and a layup. Aneesah Morrow contributed with a second-chance basket, and the Tigers took a commanding 25-point lead into halftime. Despite Arkansas putting extra focus on Flau’jae Johnson by face guarding her for much of the first half, the LSU junior still managed to put up impressive numbers.

She finished with 15 points on 5-of-12 shooting, grabbed 10 rebounds, and added 3 assists and 3 steals. Johnson, alongside star sophomore Williams—who chipped in 14 points—was instrumental in the Tigers’ success both in the halfcourt and on fast breaks. Aneesah Morrow continued her dominant season, posting an 11-point, 10-rebound double-double, marking her nation-leading 14th of the year. Together, the trio powered LSU to another commanding victory.

Meanwhile, Arkansas struggled, shooting just 36% from the field and committing 21 turnovers. LSU made sure to capitalize on those mistakes, turning them into a staggering 34 points. The Lady Tigers will now face Auburn on Sunday night, January 5!