Kim Mulkey responds to fan criticism over LSU missing national anthem

The LSU Tigers, under the leadership of Coach Kim Mulkey, received criticism for not being present on the court during the national anthem before their Elite Eight game against the Iowa Hawkeyes on Monday evening. Their absence sparked discussions on social media platforms, with fans expressing their dissatisfaction.

After LSU’s defeat to Iowa, which propelled Caitlin Clark and the Hawkeyes to the Final Four, Mulkey faced inquiries regarding her team’s absence during the postgame press conference. Mulkey clarified that it was not a deliberate act but rather part of their team’s established routine.

Iowa players holding hands during the American National Anthem. LSU players left the court before the anthem was performed. pic.twitter.com/GhCLHUXiBX

— Dan Zaksheske (@RealDanZak) April 1, 2024

Mulkey stated, “To be honest, I wasn’t even aware when the anthem was being played. We have a set routine where the team leaves the court around the 12-minute mark to conduct our pre-game preparations.”