THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Seimone Augustus—LSU Tigers Legend and WNBA Icon Who Dominated College Hoops With Over 2,600 Career Points and Became a 4-Time WNBA Champion—Returns as Coaching Staff Member for LSU Women’s Basketball, Making Powerful Homecoming That Sets Baton Rouge on Fire
Baton Rouge, LA — LSU fans are celebrating what can only be described as a dream come true: Seimone Augustus is officially coming home.
In a move that’s electrified Tiger Nation and reignited the soul of LSU women’s basketball, Augustus—one of the most legendary figures in the history of the program—is joining the LSU coaching staff under Kim Mulkey for the upcoming season. Her return isn’t just symbolic. It’s monumental.
The four-time WNBA champion, three-time Olympic gold medalist, and two-time Naismith College Player of the Year made her name at LSU in the early 2000s, becoming the face of the Tigers during a golden era that saw the team reach three straight Final Fours. Her career total of 2,702 points remains one of the most iconic achievements in program history.
Now, nearly two decades later, the Baton Rouge native is returning to the very court where her legend began—this time to help shape the next generation of stars.
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A Homecoming Years in the Making
Seimone Augustus isn’t just a former player. She’s the embodiment of what it means to be an LSU Tiger. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, she was a hometown hero long before she ever put on the purple and gold. As a high school phenom at Capitol High, Augustus was on the radar of every major program in the country. But when she chose to stay home and represent LSU, she sparked something special.
From 2002 to 2006, Augustus took the LSU women’s program to heights it had never seen before. Her graceful mid-range jumper, her calm leadership, and her uncanny ability to deliver in the clutch made her a fan favorite—and a national superstar.
By the time she graduated, Seimone wasn’t just the greatest player in LSU women’s basketball history—she was one of the most decorated players in all of college basketball.
And yet, despite all her accolades, she always remained grounded. Loyal. Connected.
“I owe everything to this program,” Augustus said in her statement announcing her return. “This is where I found my voice. This is where I became the woman I am. Now it’s time to give back.”
A Massive Win for Kim Mulkey and LSU
LSU head coach Kim Mulkey has already proven she can recruit top-tier talent and win national titles, but this addition might be her most emotional and culturally significant move yet.
By bringing Seimone Augustus into the fold, Mulkey isn’t just adding another basketball mind to her bench—she’s adding LSU’s soul.
“Seimone understands what this program means in a way no one else can,” said Mulkey. “She lived it. She carried it. And now she’s ready to teach it.”
Augustus’ experience at every level of the game—from dominating college basketball, to becoming a WNBA superstar, to leading Team USA on the international stage—makes her an invaluable asset to a program that is now routinely chasing championships.
With current stars like MiLaysia Fulwiley and Flau’jae Johnson drawing national attention, and recruiting classes ranked among the best in the country, the presence of a living legend on the sideline only raises the ceiling for what LSU can achieve.
The Emotional Impact on Tiger Nation
If social media and fan forums are any indication, the emotional impact of Seimone’s return cannot be overstated.
“This is the LSU version of Michael Jordan coming home,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). Another wrote, “When Seimone talks, every young baller in that locker room better listen. She is LSU.”
Former players, including Sylvia Fowles and Temeka Johnson, also chimed in with words of praise and celebration. Even WNBA stars who never played with Augustus expressed excitement, calling the move “inspirational” and “perfect.”
The love and respect for Augustus have always been immense in Baton Rouge. But now that she’s back in purple and gold, the connection feels stronger than ever.
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What’s Next for LSU?
The timing of this announcement could not be more perfect.
After winning the national championship in 2023 and making a deep run again in 2024, LSU is entering the 2025-26 season with both high expectations and a national spotlight. The return of Seimone Augustus adds not just experience and mentorship—but also a serious edge in recruiting.
There’s no question that her presence on the sidelines will be a major draw for top high school and transfer prospects alike.
In addition to her coaching responsibilities, it’s expected that Augustus will play a key role in player development and mentorship—especially in helping young guards with scoring mechanics, leadership, and mental toughness.
And with the Tigers aiming for another deep NCAA Tournament run, every ounce of championship pedigree helps. With Mulkey’s fiery leadership and Augustus’ quiet power, the balance could be just right.
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A Full Circle Moment
For Seimone Augustus, this moment feels like more than a coaching hire—it feels like destiny.
From the Capitol High gymnasiums to the PMAC and all the way to the WNBA Hall of Fame conversation, Augustus has never forgotten where she came from. She’s walked the walk. She’s worn the jersey. And now she’s stepping back onto the court not to play—but to teach, lead, and inspire.
LSU isn’t just building a contender. They’re building a legacy.
And with Seimone Augustus back in Baton Rouge, Tiger Nation can officially say:
This is the best news we could hope for.
