MARCH MADNESS
What did Kim Mulkey say about the LA Times article and what did the newspaper say about LSU?
Kim Mulkey, the head coach of the LSU Tigers women’s basketball team, recently took issue with an article published by the Los Angeles Times.
Recently, Kim Mulkey, the head coach of the LSU Tigers women’s basketball team, found herself in a heated battle with the Los Angeles Times. The catalyst? An article that sparked outrage, accusations of sexism, and a fierce defense of her players.
What was the Controversial LA Times Article?
Written by Ben Bolch, the LA Times article framed the Sweet 16 matchup between LSU and UCLA as a clash of values: “good versus evil,” “right versus wrong,” and “inclusive versus divisive.”
But it was one particular paragraph that set off Kim Mulkey,“Do you prefer America’s sweethearts or its dirty debutantes? Milk and cookies or Louisiana hot sauce.”
Mulkey’s Fiery Response
In a post-game press conference, Mulkey didn’t hold back. She called the article “sexist” and defended her players vehemently.
Referring to the term “dirty debutantes,” she challenged reporters to Google it and see what it meant. “Are you kidding me?” she exclaimed. “I’m not going to let you talk about 18-to-21-year-old kids in that tone.”
She also criticized the characterization of UCLA as “milk and cookies,” emphasizing that sexism should not be tolerated. In response to the backlash, the LA Times edited the article. However, the damage was done.
The newspaper later issued an apology, acknowledging that the original version did not meet editorial standards. In the end, this battle isn’t just about basketball—it’s about respect, fairness, and standing up for what’s right