Louisiana Governor Suggests Imposing Penalty for Players Who Skip National Anthem

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry shared his thoughts on the recent LSU national anthem controversy, proposing a potential penalty for student athletes if similar incidents occur in the future.

Prior to LSU’s Elite Eight game against Iowa in Albany, New York, on Monday night, coach Kim Mulkey’s team was notably missing from the court during the national anthem. Meanwhile, Iowa’s players were seen holding hands as “The Star-Spangled Banner” played.

“My mother coached women’s high school basketball during the desegregation era, and I have immense respect for the sport and Coach Mulkey,” Landry stated in a tweet on Tuesday. “However, above all, we must respect those who serve to protect and unite us under one flag!”

Landry suggested implementing a policy for all collegiate boards, including Regent, mandating that student athletes must be present for the national anthem or risk losing their athletic scholarship. He emphasized the importance of instilling respect for the anthem among collegiate coaches.

In response, Mulkey clarified that her team did not intentionally skip the national anthem to make a statement or support a cause.

“Honestly, I don’t even know when the anthem was played,” Mulkey mentioned in a press conference following the game. “We have a routine where we’re on the floor and then they come off at the 12-minute mark.”

Meanwhile, Baton Rouge Proud reported that this was not an isolated incident for the LSU team to skip the national anthem.

BR Proud sports reporter Chessa Bouche highlighted in a post that the LSU women’s basketball team “never” appears on the court during the national anthem at games.

Public criticism ensued, with many questioning the team’s consistent absence during the anthem. One commenter, Stephen, expressed disbelief at their lack of participation, emphasizing the importance of honoring the country where they have the opportunity to play the sport.