‘Unfriendly’ Kim Mulkey’s problems pile up at LSU after the departure of one of her stars
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 […]
