This Monday night, the LSU Lady Tigers claimed the spotlight in every way. At the Pete Maravich Assembly Center, LSU’s roster edged out Vanderbilt in an electric 83-77 victory. Despite the win, disappointment against officiating lingered among the fans as LSU saw four Tigers in foul trouble early in the game. The sentiment now seems to have dug up a Kim Mulkey moment, going off at the referees.

In March 2022, LSU was up against Kentucky during the SEC tournament when Mulkey famously lost her cool. The Tigers were down by 12 points with only two minutes left on the clock. It was then that Khayla Pointer fell to the floor after attempting a 3-point shot as Kentucky’s Jazmine Massengill stood guard. There was no call against the latter and Mulkey wasn’t happy letting it slide.

She barged onto the court, gesturing and bursting off at the official. The head coach would later receive a technical and the Tigers lost 78-63. A few fans were quick to bring it up today, with one noting, “This will always be my favorite Mulkey crashout.”

A total of 20 fouls were called against LSU Monday night, with Vanderbilt attempting 22 free throws– four more than their opponents. As they headed into the third quarter, the Tigers saw Mikaylah Williams, Last-Tear Poa, Sa’Myah Smith, and Shayeann Day-Wilson, all in foul trouble with 2 each. 4 more would pick up one each, landing the refs on the wrong side of LSU supporters.

But despite the drama, LSU’s key players delivered in a big way. Aneesah Morrow notched another double-double with 23 points and 15 rebounds. It also marked a historic milestone of 2,500 career points and 1,500 rebounds– a feat only shared by seven other players in women’s collegiate basketball history.

However, she wasn’t the only one shining on the court. Mikayla Williams turned eyeballs for shooting an efficient 8 for 13 and adding 20 points to LSU’s tally while Flau’Jae Johnson led with 24. The Tigers were also able to dominate the boards grabbing 45 rebounds. Not just that, it was their 44 score in the paint that propelled them to their 19th consecutive win this season. But even then, officiating has been a concern for the HC– ever since the season’s beginning.

Kim Mulkey’s fiery clashes with referees take centre stage as she eyes second title win

Kim Mulkey’s passion was on full display during LSU’s season opener. In that game, the head coach received a technical foul in the fourth quarter following another controversial call against Flau’jae Johnson. It happened when Johnson drove toward the basket, only to be called for a charge after the defender fell in trying to guard. Mulkey stormed the sideline and drew a quick technical from the officials. Fortunately for LSU, the free throw following the technical was missed.

Love her or hate her, Mulkey’s passion for her team is undeniable. Thanks to her leadership, LSU stands as one of the toughest contenders with a 19-0 record. “we’re playing to win. I’m not worried about 10 games down the road. We’re in a dogfight out there.” shared Mulkey in a post-game press conference.

The Lady Tigers will face the Florida Gators next, followed by a highly anticipated clash with South Carolina. Will LSU be able to add another national championship title to their name? Or will the Tigers be defeated in their pursuit? Stay tuned to find out.