‘That’s Supposed to Be Better?’: Fans Enraged by LSU Coach’s Explanation for Missing National Anthem

When trying to defend the indefensible, sometimes it’s better to say, I have no excuse. LSU coach Kim Mulkey is probably telling herself that right now.

In the postgame press conference following her team’s 94-87 defeat at the hands of rival Iowa, Mulkey was asked why her team was not on the floor for the national anthem prior to their highly-anticipated Elite Eight tilt against the Hawkeyes.

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’s answer, while it seems truthful, did not improve the situation.

“Honestly, I don’t even know when the anthem was played. We kind of a routine where we’re on the floor and then they come off at the 12-minute mark. I don’t know … we come in, and we do our pregame stuff. I’m sorry … Listen, that’s nothing intentionally done.”

Kim Mulkey said her team didn't intentionally leave the floor prior to the playing of the United States National Anthem.

"Honestly, I don't even know when the anthem was played. We kind of have a routine [for leaving the court at a certain time]." pic.twitter.com/JclJExC1Ym

— Dan Zaksheske (@RealDanZak) April 2, 2024

A Baton Rouge reporter said LSU is never on the court for the anthem.

LSU is never on the court for the National Anthem https://t.co/tfsDAgdOjn

— Chessa Bouche (@chessabouche) April 1, 2024

While Kim Mulkey no doubt believes in her routine and holds it in a place of high importance, many X users were of the opinion that her “routine” should take a back seat to the importance of showing respect for the national anthem.

She was correct- they have a regular, disrespectful routine of leaving the court when the national anthem is played.

In return there should be a routine policy of not providing federal aid to colleges that allow this and for students who do not respect the country enough that…

— DJtheJeep (@JDrsx850i) April 2, 2024

That response is wrong. Why not have a routine to stay on the court to make sure you hear the national anthem?

— Mary Frost (@mlfrostmi) April 2, 2024

And that routine is leaving the floor prior to the playing of the United States National Anthem.

Damn LSU!

— Lee Boggs (@leeboggs) April 2, 2024

Just another lie, no one takes responsibility anymore how about just say the truth, my players didn’t want to be there and I’m not a strong enough coach to stand up and speak truth so I let them walk all over me and I’m a and this is maybe the reason we lost I will work harder at…

— Dadof5 (@MattB025) April 2, 2024

I don't even know what time the anthem is played?!!!

That's supposed to be better ?

Wow.

— Pro Swing Trading 📈😎🇺🇸 (@Pro__Trading) April 2, 2024

Not buying this pathetic excuse ….

— Aczar (@Aczar1Alan) April 2, 2024

Iowa, on the other hand, did stand respectfully for the national anthem. They advance to the women’s Final Four. LSU’s season is over. And now they’ll have plenty of time to learn when the national anthem is played.