LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey was heartbroken when she learned that the athletic director responsible for bringing her to Louisiana, Scott Woodward, was fired by the university. Mulkey discovered the news during the Tigers’ exhibition win against Langston, as noted by associate head coach Bob Starkey. Starkey mentioned that Woodward had a profound love for coaches, student-athletes, and the university community, stating, ‘Scott has a deep love for coaches and student-athletes and the people that work for him.’

LSU verified on Thursday night that Woodward’s tenure as athletic director has officially ended; his six-year term concluded with a separation agreement. Verge Ausberry, who was Woodward’s deputy, has taken on the role of interim athletic director.

This dismissal follows closely on the heels of the university firing football coach Brian Kelly, and one day after Governor Jeff Landry openly criticized Woodward about the size of Kelly’s $95 million contract.

Woodward’s management has received mixed reviews; while he was instrumental in significant coaching hires, including Mulkey and Jay Johnson for baseball, his aggressive spending approach on coaching contracts has attracted scrutiny. As LSU grapples with these leadership changes, Mulkey’s squad displayed remarkable focus, overwhelming Langston with a score of 121-41 during their final preseason matchup.