Kim Mulkey Responds to Backlash, Calls Criticism "Sexist"

In the aftermath of the LSU-South Carolina dustup during the SEC championship game, Kim Mulkey, the coach of the Tigers, has faced considerable backlash from critics. Mulkey's response to the incident, in which South Carolina's Kamilla Cardoso shoved LSU's Flau'jae Johnson, has drawn criticism from various sources, including Shannon Sharpe and USA Today.

Mulkey described the criticism as "a little bit sexist," accusing the media of overreacting to the altercation compared to similar incidents in men's basketball. She expressed her frustration, saying, "You don't get this much attention when men do it. So why do you keep writing about the women? It really comes across as a little bit sexist."

The severity of the fight, according to Mulkey, has been exaggerated. She argued, "I've seen every men's game that has something like that, and it's no big deal. We mention it and then we move on." Mulkey highlighted that the altercation was merely a shoving match and emphasized that no punches were thrown and no one was physically harmed.

However, Mulkey's comments went beyond critiquing the media coverage. She expressed her dissatisfaction with Cardoso's choice of target, stating, "I wish [Cardoso] would've pushed Angel Reese. If you're 6-8, don't push somebody that little. That was uncalled for in my opinion."

While acknowledging the unsightly nature of the altercation, Mulkey suggested that if two players were already engaged in a verbal confrontation, they should be allowed to resolve their issues themselves. She remarked, "Let those two girls who were jawing, let them go at it."

Mulkey's responses have sparked debate and continued the conversation around sportsmanship and media coverage in women's basketball. While some argue that the incident deserved attention due to its potential ramifications for the players and teams involved, others contend that the criticism directed at Mulkey is unwarranted and rooted in biased perceptions.

As the aftermath of the SEC championship game rages on, it remains to be seen how this controversy surrounding Mulkey's remarks and the media coverage of the altercation will develop.