In a momentous development for LSU women’s basketball, Seimone Augustus, one of the program’s most iconic figures, has returned to her alma mater as an assistant coach under head coach Kim Mulkey. This announcement, made on May 20, 2024, marks a significant chapter in Augustus’s illustrious career and underscores LSU’s commitment to excellence in women’s collegiate basketball.
College Career at LSU
Seimone Augustus’s journey at LSU is nothing short of legendary. From 2002 to 2006, she led the Tigers to three consecutive NCAA Final Four appearances, a feat that elevated the program to national prominence. In 2006, Augustus was honored as the Associated Press National Player of the Year, and she also secured the State Farm Wade Trophy, Naismith Award, and John R. Wooden Award in both 2005 and 2006. Her impact on the court was profound, and her No. 33 jersey was retired by LSU in 2010, making her the first female athlete in the school’s history to receive that honor.
Professional Achievements
After her collegiate success, Augustus was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2006 WNBA Draft by the Minnesota Lynx. Her professional career was distinguished by four WNBA championships, eight All-Star selections, and a Finals MVP award in 2011. Additionally, she represented the United States in three Olympic Games, earning gold medals in 2008, 2012, and 2016. Augustus retired from professional basketball in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and leadership
Following her retirement, Augustus transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Sparks in 2021. This role allowed her to begin shaping her coaching philosophy and develop a deeper understanding of the game’s strategic aspects. Her experience as a player at the highest levels provided her with unique insights that she was eager to share with the next generation of players.
In May 2024, Augustus returned to LSU to join Coach Kim Mulkey’s staff as an assistant coach, filling the vacancy left by the retirement of Johnny Derrick. In her introductory press conference, Augustus expressed her excitement about returning to her roots
“Life always guides you to where you belong. Thus, my path has led me home. Gracing me with an opportunity to further my coaching career within a program that I hold dearly.”)
Her return to LSU signifies a full-circle moment, as she now has the opportunity to mentor and develop players, just as she once was. Working alongside Coach Mulkey and reconnecting with former coach Bob Starkey, Augustus is poised to make a significant impact on the program’s future.
Impact on LSU Women’s Basketball
Enhancing the Coaching Staff
Augustus’s addition to the coaching staff brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to LSU women’s basketball. Her background as a player at the highest levels, combined with her coaching experience, equips her to provide valuable insights and guidance to the team’s players. Her presence on the bench offers a unique perspective that blends the demands of elite competition with the nuances of coaching development
Mentorship and Player Development
One of Augustus’s key strengths is her ability to connect with players and serve as a mentor. Her journey from Baton Rouge to the pinnacle of women’s basketball provides a compelling narrative that resonates with aspiring athletes. She embodies the values of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, qualities she aims to instill in her players. As an assistant coach, Augustus is dedicated to fostering an environment where players can thrive both on and off the court.
Strategic Contributions
Augustus’s extensive playing experience allows her to contribute strategically to the team’s game plans and in-game decisions. Her understanding of the game’s intricacies, honed through years of professional play, enables her to offer tactical insights that enhance the team’s performance. Collaborating with Coach Mulkey and the rest of the coaching staff, Augustus plays a pivotal role in shaping the team’s approach to competition.
Looking Ahead
As LSU women’s basketball continues to build upon its storied legacy, the addition of Seimone Augustus to the coaching staff represents a forward-thinking move that honors the program’s past while embracing its future. With Augustus’s guidance, the Tigers are well-positioned to contend for national championships and continue their tradition of excellence.
In the words of Coach Mulkey, “It is an exciting day for the LSU Women’s Basketball program to bring Seimone Augustus back to join our staff. As a player at LSU, Seimone helped transform the program as the best player in the nation. She brought LSU to national prominence. She will be a tremendous member on our staff as someone with great experience who has excelled at every level of the game from high school in Baton Rouge to college to the WNBA to the Olympics.”
