The energetic and stylish head coach of LSU’s women’s basketball team, Kim Mulkey, has earned a name for herself both for her great coaching and for her bling on the sidelines. While her team celebrated an impressive 20th straight victory, a 63-80 win over Florida on Sunday, Mulkey confessed to missing something—or someone—off the court. NBA legend and LSU alum, Shaquille O’Neal was sitting in the stands cheering on his daughter, Me’arah, who plays for Florida. Despite his towering 7-foot frame, Kim Mulkey admitted she completely missed seeing him during the game.

Mulkey’s eyes widened in surprise when after the game a reporter asked about Shaq’s attendance. “Was he here? Was Shaq here today? We love him at LSU. He’s just a great ambassador for our university,” Mulkey said later with a smile. “I wish I would’ve known he was here. I would have gone and hugged his neck.” Instead, her eyes were glued to the court, watching her players and helping LSU keep its unbeaten streak alive.

Shaq’s love for LSU isn’t new. He’s been a huge supporter of the women’s basketball program, stepping in as a mentor for former LSU star Angel Reese. Shaq, who was a father figure to Reese at LSU, would give Reese advice on and off the court. He even helped her getting a deal with Reebok and in building her personal brand.

Interestingly, his connections to the program haven’t always been without their quirks. Mulkey, known for her outgoing personality, surprised O’Neal during a Senior Day ceremony. When she stepped away from the traditional handshake and instead went in for a casual dap. Even with those moments, both have a deep respect for one another and for LSU’s basketball legacy.

Kim Mulkey’s outfits may often take center stage, but LSU’s incredible season is the real story. The Tigers are on fire sitting at 20-0 overall and 5-0 in SEC play. It could have been tough losing Angel Reese to the WNBA but the team has not skipped a beat. Some new stars have risen to the occasion. 

Aneesah Morrow is pulling in a double-double at 16.4 points and 10 rebounds a game. Against Florida, Mikaylah Williams led the way with 22 points. Flau’jae Johnson continues to deliver, adding 19 points in the same game. 

Up next is a showdown against No. 2 South Carolina—a game that’s already generating buzz. It’s a big test for LSU, but if their chemistry and consistency so far are any indicators, this could be another step toward a deep NCAA tournament run. Their streak remains undefeated, but Mulkey brings another element—to her wardrobe of flair.

Dress like Kim Mulkey

Now, let’s talk about Mulkey’s wardrobe. Her bold outfits have become an iconic part of LSU basketball. When asked about her eye-popping orange pants and game-day style, Mulkey laughed it off. “No, let me correct—I don’t put any thought into it; someone does. They lay it on the bed, they tell you wear this, and I wear it.”

Mulkey’s outfits are more than just a sideline statement—they’re part of her personality. She once quipped that as a “team player” going in with all sparkle and bold designs is about pulling in a fan base who might not usually follow basketball. Even LSU recently hosted a “Dress Like Kim Mulkey Day” for fans to come in their own fancy getups to celebrate her flair.

Kim Mulkey’s personality, her larger than life persona, has become as much a part of the LSU basketball program as the team’s success. Mulkey keeps things interesting, whether she’s admitting to missing her Shaq in the crowd, or dazzling fans with her outfits. Mulkey—and her wardrobe—will be front and center of the action as LSU keeps dominating on the court.