The Pete Maravich Assembly Center was buzzing with energy this week as news broke that LSU women’s basketball icon Seimone Augustus has officially returned to her alma mater. In a move that has thrilled fans, inspired players, and sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, Augustus has joined the LSU women’s basketball program as a senior coaching staff member.
The announcement was made in front of a packed crowd at the Assembly Center, the very court where Augustus made her name as one of the greatest players in NCAA history. The atmosphere was electric as fans welcomed home a legend whose impact on the program and the sport is still felt today.
A HOMECOMING YEARS IN THE MAKING
Seimone Augustus’ return to LSU marks a full-circle moment in one of the most storied careers in women’s basketball. A native of Baton Rouge, Augustus committed to LSU in 2002 and instantly transformed the program into a national powerhouse. She led the Lady Tigers to three straight Final Four appearances (2004, 2005, 2006), won back-to-back Naismith Player of the Year awards, and became a national sensation for her elite scoring ability, leadership, and poise under pressure.
Her No. 33 jersey was retired by LSU in 2010—a rare honor that cements her legacy in school history. After college, Augustus went on to become a WNBA superstar with the Minnesota Lynx, where she won four championships, earned multiple All-Star selections, and brought home Olympic gold medals with Team USA.
Now, after an illustrious professional playing career and time spent in coaching roles, she returns to LSU to give back to the place that helped launch her journey.
A COACH WITH CHAMPIONSHIP PEDIGREE
Augustus will serve as a senior coach, a role that involves mentoring players on and off the court, helping guide game strategies, player development, and contributing to recruiting efforts. With her wealth of experience at the highest levels of basketball, she’s expected to be an invaluable asset to head coach Kim Mulkey and the entire coaching staff.
“I’m beyond excited to return to LSU in this new role,” Augustus said during a press conference. “This university and this program are part of who I am. I feel like I’m back where I belong, and I’m here to help this new generation of Tigers reach their full potential.”
Coach Kim Mulkey echoed those sentiments. “Seimone is one of the most iconic figures in the history of women’s basketball, and bringing her home is a huge win for this program. She knows what it takes to win. She’s done it on every level, and our players are going to benefit tremendously from her experience and insight.”
A BOOST FOR AN ALREADY ELITE PROGRAM
LSU women’s basketball has been on a meteoric rise in recent years, thanks in large part to the leadership of Mulkey and standout players such as Angel Reese, Flau’jae Johnson, and Hailey Van Lith. The team captured the national title in 2023 and remains one of the most high-profile programs in college sports.
Adding a legendary figure like Augustus to the coaching staff only strengthens the program’s position and appeal. Her return is not only symbolic—it’s strategic. She brings with her a championship mindset, first-hand knowledge of the LSU culture, and a track record of success that few can match.
Her presence is expected to make LSU even more competitive on the recruiting trail, especially among top-tier high school prospects who grew up watching her highlights or wearing her jersey. Her mentorship is also likely to be a stabilizing force amid the challenges of modern college athletics, including the NCAA transfer portal and Name-Image-Likeness (NIL) negotiations.
FAN REACTIONS POUR IN
Social media erupted within minutes of the announcement. Thousands of fans took to Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to express their excitement. The hashtags #WelcomeBackSeimone and #LSULegend quickly began trending.
“She’s not just a legend—she’s OUR legend,” one fan posted on X. “Having her back in Baton Rouge is a dream come true.”
Former LSU players and WNBA colleagues also shared their support. “Seimone is the blueprint. I’m so happy to see her back at LSU where she belongs,” said Sylvia Fowles, another LSU great and longtime teammate of Augustus.
Local businesses even joined in the celebration, offering discounts and promotions in her honor. One downtown restaurant named a new smoothie after her: “The Augustus – A Hall of Fame Blend.”
A POWERFUL MESSAGE TO CURRENT AND FUTURE TIGERS
Beyond the fanfare, Augustus’ return sends a powerful message to the current roster. She is living proof that greatness can come from LSU, that hard work and heart can take a player from the hardwood of Baton Rouge to Olympic podiums and championship parades.
Several current players were visibly emotional as Augustus addressed the team during her first day back on campus. “I’ve walked these halls, I’ve worn that jersey, I’ve heard the cheers from this crowd,” she told them. “Now it’s your time to write your story—and I’m here to help you every step of the way.”
One player, speaking anonymously, said: “We look up to her like a superhero. But now she’s here, in practice, talking to us, coaching us. It’s surreal. It makes you want to work even harder.”
LOOKING AHEAD TO A NEW ERA
With Seimone Augustus back in the fold, LSU’s women’s basketball program is entering an exciting new era. The foundation is already strong, with a national championship under Mulkey and a roster full of potential. But Augustus brings something unique: a living legacy, a connection to the past, and a championship resume that demands respect.
Her role may be off the court now, but her presence will be felt in every drill, every timeout huddle, and every fourth-quarter comeback. This is more than just a coaching hire—it’s a cultural homecoming that promises to elevate LSU to even greater heights.
As the 2025 season approaches, one thing is certain: the eyes of the basketball world will be on Baton Rouge. And Seimone Augustus, once again, will be leading the charge.
—
Let me know if you’d like this formatted for a blog post, press release, or news site!