Kim Mulkey is no stranger to change, but the LSU head coach finds herself at a critical crossroads heading into the 2025-26 season.
Just days after LSU’s Elite Eight loss to UCLA, forward Sa’Myah Smith entered the NCAA transfer portal, according to On3, signaling a significant shake-up in Baton Rouge.
The move comes after a productive season for the 6-foot-2 junior, who averaged 6.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game.
Her impact became especially noticeable during LSU’s March Madness campaign, where she recorded back-to-back 20-point games against Florida State and NC State, along with consecutive double-doubles in the Round of 32 and Sweet 16.
Though Smith was held to four points against UCLA, her main assignment was defensive-battling 6-foot-7 standout Lauren Betts. Despite the defeat, Smith showed grit and maturity in the paint.
Now, Smith is looking for a fresh start elsewhere with two years of eligibility remaining. Her departure follows Aneesah Morrow‘s decision to turn professional, meaning Mulkey’s frontcourt will look dramatically different next season.
Rebuilding the paint: Mulkey’s next challenge
Mulkey‘s coaching résumé is defined by dominant frontcourt talent-from Brittney Griner and Kalani Brown at Baylor to Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow at LSU. Replacing Smith and Morrow won’t be easy, and LSU’s plans for maintaining elite frontcourt production remain uncertain.
The current roster includes Jersey Wolfenbarger, who may step into a bigger role. Last season, she posted modest numbers-4.2 points and 3.4 rebounds in 13 minutes per game-but showed flashes of potential. Still, LSU will likely need more reinforcements.
Mulkey could turn to high school recruits like Sienna Betts or Grace Knox, both known for their rebounding and offensive skills. Jasmine Davidson also appears on the radar, though scouts point to limitations on the defensive end.
More likely, the immediate fix will come through the transfer portal. Breya Cunningham, a former McDonald’s All-American from Arizona, remains one of the top available options.
Cunningham averaged 7.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and showcased strong rim protection-traits that would fit well in Mulkey‘s system.
Speaking after LSU’s tournament exit, Mulkey hinted at the need for new talent: “Next year we’ll start this thing up again and see what kind of team you have and go to work.” That work is now more urgent than ever.
This news was originally published on this post .
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