Kara Larson Blasts ESPN After Dawn Staley Named Greatest in Women’s College Basketball – Says Kim Mulkey Deserves the Crown
In a fiery reaction that’s setting social media ablaze, sports commentator Kara Larson did not hold back after ESPN named South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley as the undisputed greatest figure in college women’s basketball. The network’s glowing praise for Staley—highlighting her national championships, undefeated seasons, and transformative leadership—wasn’t surprising to many fans, but it didn’t sit well with everyone.
Kara Larson’s Take? Not So Fast.
In a heated segment on her podcast, Courtside Unfiltered, Larson questioned the decision and argued passionately that LSU’s head coach Kim Mulkey deserves the top spot.
“When you think about it, Coach Mulkey definitely brought more value to the table,” Larson said. “Her track record speaks for itself—multiple national titles, success at two different programs, and a cultural impact that can’t be ignored.”
Larson’s comments quickly went viral, stirring a fresh debate among basketball fans, analysts, and former players. While many agreed that Staley has revolutionized the women’s game in recent years, others sided with Larson, saying Mulkey’s legacy across decades and institutions shouldn’t be overlooked.
Dawn Staley vs. Kim Mulkey: A Clash of Titans
The debate isn’t without merit. Both coaches have carved their names deep into the fabric of NCAA women’s basketball.
Dawn Staley
3x NCAA Champion as Head Coach (2017, 2022, 2024)
Undefeated regular seasons
Olympic gold medalist as both player and coach
Advocated fiercely for racial equity and visibility for Black women in sports
Rebuilt South Carolina into a national powerhouse from the ground up
Kim Mulkey
4x NCAA Champion as Head Coach (2005, 2012, 2019 with Baylor; 2023 with LSU)
First coach to win national titles at two different schools
Known for fierce intensity and no-nonsense leadership
Revitalized LSU’s women’s basketball in just two seasons
Coached numerous All-Americans and WNBA draft picks
Both are icons. Both have led with different styles. Staley is known for her cool, composed leadership and social advocacy, while Mulkey is seen as fiery, passionate, and driven by results. Their resumes are impressive, but fans and analysts are split on what defines “the greatest.”
Social Media Explodes With Opinions
Once Larson’s clip began circulating on X (formerly Twitter), users quickly took sides.
@HoopsQueen33: “Dawn Staley changed the culture of women’s hoops. It’s not just about wins—it’s about how she wins. ESPN got it right.”
@BballFanatic87: “Kara’s not wrong. Mulkey turned LSU around in a flash. Her legacy is LONG. Four rings? Come on now.”
@GamecockForever: “Funny how every time a Black woman gets recognized for greatness, people scramble to say someone else is more ‘deserving.’ Just say you’re uncomfortable.”
Even some players weighed in, with former Gamecocks praising Staley’s mentorship and others acknowledging Mulkey’s relentless coaching style and discipline.
Kara Larson Defends Her Statement
Facing backlash, Larson doubled down in a follow-up post:
“This isn’t personal. It’s about facts. Kim Mulkey has achieved greatness at multiple programs over a longer span of time. That’s rare. We need to look at the full picture.”
She added that while she respects Staley’s accomplishments, longevity and adaptability matter just as much as recent dominance.
Is There Room for Two GOATs?
Perhaps the real question isn’t about who’s greater—it’s about how we define greatness. Dawn Staley has led a cultural renaissance in the sport, making South Carolina a destination for top recruits and elevating conversations around equity, access, and leadership. Kim Mulkey, on the other hand, has shown that results follow her wherever she goes—and fast.
In many ways, the debate reflects the evolution of women’s basketball itself: one where there is space for multiple legends, different coaching philosophies, and a growing appreciation for the diverse faces leading the charge.
Whether you agree with ESPN’s selection or Kara Larson’s passionate protest, one thing is certain: both Staley and Mulkey have forever changed the game.
