Netflix’s release of an in-depth documentary on Kim Mulkey’s transformative leadership as head coach of the LSU Tigers women’s basketball team offers a comprehensive look into the life and career of one of the most accomplished figures in women’s college basketball. This documentary not only highlights her coaching achievements but also delves into her personal journey, challenges, and the impact she has had on the sport.
Kim Mulkey’s ascent in the world of basketball began at an early age. Born on May 17, 1962, in Santa Ana, California, she grew up in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana. Her athletic prowess was evident during her high school years at Hammond High School, where she led the basketball team to four consecutive state championships, posting a remarkable 136-5 record. She finished her career with a then-national record of 4,075 points and earned All-America honors each of her four years. Graduating as her class’s valedictorian with a perfect 4.0 GPA, Mulkey’s academic and athletic excellence set the stage for her future endeavors.
Mulkey continued her basketball journey at Louisiana Tech University, where she played under legendary coach Leon Barmore. During her tenure, she helped the Lady Techsters win a national championship in 1981 and earned numerous accolades, including being named a First-Team All-American. Her success on the court was complemented by her academic achievements, graduating summa cum laude as a business major and becoming a two-time Academic All-American .([supersportupdate.
Transitioning into coaching, Mulkey began her career as an assistant coach at Louisiana Tech in 1985. Her coaching journey took a significant leap in 2000 when she became the head coach at Baylor University. Over the next two decades, she transformed Baylor into a powerhouse, leading the team to three NCAA championships in 2005, 2012, and 2019. Her coaching philosophy emphasized a fast-paced, aggressive style of play, demanding excellence from her players both on and off the court. Under her guidance, Baylor consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation, and Mulkey became known for her fiery passion and commitment to her players .
In 2021, Mulkey returned to her home state of Louisiana to become the head coach of the LSU Tigers women’s basketball team. Taking over a program that had seen better days, she quickly revitalized the team, leading them to a 26-6 record in her first season and earning the AP National Coach of the Year award. Her impact was immediate, as LSU ranked No. 2 in the Southeastern Conference and set a new program attendance record with over 129,000 fans attending games throughout the season .
The pinnacle of Mulkey’s achievements at LSU came in the 2022–23 season when she led the Tigers to their first-ever NCAA women’s basketball championship. In a high-scoring final, LSU defeated Iowa 102-85, setting several offensive and scoring records. This victory not only marked a historic achievement for LSU but also solidified Mulkey’s legacy as the first coach to win a Division I women’s basketball national championship at two different schools .
Beyond her on-court success, Mulkey’s influence extends to the broader landscape of women’s sports. In 2025, she made history by becoming the first woman to win both the Lisa Leslie Award and the Cheryl Miller Small Forward of the Year Award in the same season. These prestigious honors, typically awarded to players, were bestowed upon Mulkey in recognition of her exceptional coaching abilities and the development of her players. This achievement underscores her profound impact on the game and her ability to shape the future of women’s basketball .([supersportupdate.co.uk][3])
However, Mulkey’s career has not been without controversy. Her confrontational coaching style and outspoken nature have drawn criticism over the years. She has faced scrutiny for her handling of various issues, including her defense of the Baylor football program during a scandal and allegations of mistreatment of gay players. Mulkey has denied these claims, and former players have come to her defense, highlighting her commitment to her team and her role as a mentor .([supersportupdate.
The Netflix documentary offers an intimate portrayal of Mulkey, providing insights into her personal life, including her relationships with her children, Makenzie and Kramer. Makenzie, who played basketball and softball at Baylor, and Kramer, a professional baseball player, share their experiences growing up with a mother who was both a dedicated coach and a loving parent. The documentary also delves into Mulkey’s upbringing in Louisiana, her early influences, and the challenges she faced in balancing her career with her personal life.
Through interviews with players, colleagues, and family members, the documentary paints a multifaceted picture of Kim Mulkey—a coach who has achieved unparalleled success, faced significant challenges, and left an indelible mark on the sport of women’s basketball. It is a testament to her resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to excellence, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the woman behind the accolades.
Kim Mulkey’s journey is a compelling narrative of ambition, perseverance, and transformation. From her early days as a high school basketball prodigy to her current status as a Hall of Fame coach, her story reflects the evolution of women’s sports and the breaking of barriers. Her impact extends beyond the basketball court, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their passions and challenge the status quo. As the documentary unfolds, it becomes clear that Kim Mulkey’s legacy is not just defined by the championships she has won but by the lives she has touched and the doors she has opened for future generations of women in sports.
Netflix’s documentary on Kim Mulkey offers an in-depth exploration of a transformative figure in women’s basketball. It provides a comprehensive look at her career, achievements, controversies, and personal life, offering viewers a nuanced understanding of the woman who has shaped the landscape of college basketball. Through this documentary, Mulkey’s legacy is celebrated, and her influence on the sport is acknowledged, ensuring that her story continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.
