The SEC Women’s Basketball Tournament final between LSU and South Carolina was extremely tight, but an off-court fight stole the show. As the Gamecocks won 79-72, fans witnessed a heated altercation between Kamilla Cardoso and Flau’jae Johnson. However, it was LSU’s head coach, Kim Mulkey, who provided the most memorable moment with her honest post-game remarks.
Kim Mulkey speaks
During the fourth quarter, emotions were high. Johnson, LSU’s point guard, purposely fouled South Carolina’s Zia Cooke, resulting in a physical fight. Cardoso, the Gamecocks’ 6’8″ centre, pushed Johnson, who stands at 5’10”. The referees expelled both players, as well as four other participants in the melee.
Kim Mulkey spoke bluntly after the game. She addressed the event with a blazing passion that captivated both fans and pundits. What are her words in the tweet? “I wish she would have pushed Angel Reese, You 6’8″, don’t push somebody that little. That was uncalled for, in my opinion.”
Fan Reactions
“Mulkey and Staleys remarks couldn’t be any more different after. Dawn Staley was all class, this is not it from Mulkey,” A fan commented.
Another added,”This shows what she thinks about her players especially Angel Angel is some thug that has to fight. She’s a baller Coach Mulkey had to take it to the trailer park as usual tho.”
A few more commented, ” Dawn Staley is a class act. So impressed with this response and handling of today’s incident.”
“Lmaoooo Kim is a Gangster !!”
“The push is just uncalled for..”
Some fans found it inappropriate, while others saw it as a passionate defense of her team. Regardless, it added fuel to the fire and intensified the debate.
While LSU’s loss was disheartening, Mulkey’s attention went beyond the court. She was concerned that the brawl would damage the sport’s image: “It’s ugly.” This isn’t good. Nobody wants to be a part of it.” Dawn Staley, South Carolina’s head coach, also apologized, underlining that such acts do not reflect the principles of the program.
Mulkey’s candidness caused a social media frenzy, demonstrating that basketball is more than just points and rebounds—it’s about passion, integrity, and standing up for what’s right. As the NCAA Tournament approaches, fans will recall this titanic confrontation and the coach who wasn’t hesitant to express her opinions.
