The LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey is facing criticism after her team was absent from the court during the playing of the national anthem before a game.
When asked about it, Mulkey said the team wasn’t intentionally disrespecting the anthem and that they have a routine of leaving the court at a certain time.
“Honestly, I don’t even know when the anthem was played. We kind of have a routine,” Mulkey said.
Intentionally or not, many noted that respecting the anthem should be a deliberate act, and having a routine that ensures being present would be better.
Critics said Mulkey’s words and behavior indicate a lack of priority placed on respecting the US, its freedoms and those who serve to protect them.
“That response is wrong. Why not have a routine to stay on the court to make sure you hear the national anthem?” one X user wrote.
“I agree 100%. Having said that, they did not do it intentionally this game. They do it every game as part of their routine. 12 minutes on the court – then they leave – with zero regard for the National Anthem. So, I guess that makes it worse. That’s on Mulkey!! She is done,” another wrote.
“She was correct- they have a regular, disrespectful routine of leaving the court when the national anthem is played,” another said.
“In return there should be a routine policy of not providing federal aid to colleges that allow this and for students who do not respect the country enough that.”
