As the women’s college basketball season rolls on, New York Liberty guard Didi Richards shared insights into her connection with legendary coach Kim Mulkey.
On the “VYPE Podcast,” Richards reflected on the bond she developed with the current LSU Tigers coach during their time at Baylor and how it shaped her growth both on and off the court.
Didi Richards Talks About Her Special Bond With Kim Mulkey
Didi Richards discussed her initial admiration for Mulkey when she committed to Baylor.
“I love to go be so much whenever I commit there,” Richards explained. “But now, it was nothing like it’s compared to now. It’s like I—there’s no way I thought that I could love her any more than what I did before,” she explained.
Over time, their relationship deepened. Now, Richards considers Mulkey one of her closest confidantes.
“We talk like twice a month, three times. It’s just perfect for us because we’ll be on the phone forever, and I don’t even be on the phone forever,” she said.
Their bond grew stronger because of Mulkey’s tough-love approach, which reminded Richards of her father’s training style.
“I think our relationship developed so quickly because my dad was very tough on me,” Richards said. “I was getting yelled at all the time, which was for the betterment of my career. And at the time, I didn’t realize that, but now I realize that.”
Mulkey’s hard coaching style was the same, but Richards appreciated it, saying Mulkey was “like a mama bear,” showing care through discipline.
“Tough love made you want to run through a wall for her,” she added. “Everyone has a different story on how they, you know, seek her. But I think for me, her love and the way she shows love is through the tough love that I received.”
Kim Mulkey’s LSU Tigers on Track for No. 1 Seed in NCAA Tournament
Under head coach Kim Mulkey, LSU has dominated this season. The Tigers have posted an impressive 25-1 record, and as of now, they’re tied for first in the SEC. Their inclusion in the Field of 68 is secure, but the big question is whether they can close out the season strong enough to land a top seed.
LSU has been projected as a No. 2 seed for most of the season, but still, they remain firmly in the mix for a No. 1 seed. In fact, ESPN bracketologist Charlie Creme listed LSU as one of the six teams still in contention for a top seed. He projected the Tigers as a No. 2 seed in the Birmingham Region, with Notre Dame occupying the No. 1 spot in the same bracket.
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The Tigers have solidified their standing with a strong record, including 11-1 in Quad 1 and 2 games, the second-best record behind only No. 1 UCLA. They have also registered four wins over ranked opponents, including Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Vanderbilt.
Despite these impressive feats, LSU faces a challenge in terms of their NET ranking, which currently sits at No. 9, the lowest among the teams vying for a No. 1 seed. However, a win on the road against No. 6 Texas this week could give LSU the boost it needs to improve its seeding heading into Selection Sunday.
Still, while solid, the Tigers’ NET ranking leaves room for improvement. To truly solidify their claim for a No. 1 seed, a victory in their upcoming game against Texas would be crucial. A win would not only enhance their strength of schedule but also send a strong message to the selection committee ahead of the NCAA Tournament.
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