Louisiana Governor suggests athletes should prioritize national anthem over athletic scholarships after LSU-Iowa

The Elite Eight rematch between Iowa and LSU in the 2023 championship was a spectacular event that received high praise from celebrities, athletes, and fans. It also set a new record as the most-watched women’s college basketball game ever.

However, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry criticized LSU for not being present during the national anthem before the game even started. He called for a policy that would risk a student-athlete’s scholarship if they were not there for “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

“My mother coached women’s high school basketball during desegregation, and I have the utmost respect for the sport and Coach Mulkey,” Gov. Landry stated. “But above all, we must respect those who serve and unite us under one flag. It’s time for college boards to implement a policy requiring student athletes to be present for the national anthem or risk losing their athletic scholarships. This is a matter of respect that all collegiate coaches should instill.”

My mother coached women’s high school basketball during desegregation, no one has a greater respect for the sport and for Coach Mulkey. However, above respect for the game is a deeper respect for those who serve to protect us and unite us under one flag!

LSU coach Kim Mulkey explained that she was not aware of the timing of the anthem and that her team’s routine was to head to the locker room at the 12-minute mark. On the other hand, Iowa players were present for the anthem, lining up along the foul line holding hands.

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley and her team faced similar criticism in 2022 for not being on the floor during the national anthem in the Final Four. Staley clarified that it was unintentional and attributed it to their pregame rituals.

It’s not mandatory for college teams to be on the court during the national anthem, and it’s not uncommon for them to be in their locker rooms. This practice is seen in various college sports, including football. Teams may not be present for the anthem during regular-season games or bowl games. The same was observed at the Big Ten college football championship game between Iowa and Michigan in December.

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(Photo of American Airlines Center before the 2023 women’s NCAA Tournament championship: Ron Jenkins / Getty Images)