LSU’s athletic director, Scott Woodward, has publicly addressed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry’s initiative to mandate the presence of student-athletes during the national anthem before competitions. Landry sent letters to state college boards urging universities to enforce this requirement, warning that non-compliance could jeopardize athletic scholarships. Woodward acknowledged receipt of Landry’s letter in a statement posted on X on Friday.

“We have reviewed Governor Landry’s letter on the national anthem,” Woodward said in his statement. “At LSU we have and will always be dedicated to the flag, the anthem and the country. We consistently look at all our processes and will do so again. As Louisiana’s flagship university, LSU always strives to represent the higher ideals and values of our students, our state and our country.”

Woodward’s statement did not indicate any plans for the university to adjust its current pre-game practices to meet Landry’s request.

Governor Landry began advocating for this requirement after the LSU women’s basketball team did not participate in the pregame ritual before the Elite Eight game against Iowa in Albany, New York, on Monday. LSU has clarified that it has been several years since either of its basketball teams has been on the court for the anthem.

In his own statement on Friday, Landry thanked Woodward for his leadership and urged the NCAA to ensure that teams are present for the national anthem during this weekend’s Final Four games.

“Thank you, Scott, for your leadership, as well as the entire LSU community,” Landry said. “This has never been about Coach Mulkey, a stalwart of our time, a great citizen of Louisiana, and a patriot! Nor about our girls’ basketball team, who have overcome critics and challenges, bringing great pride to our state!

“This is about traditions and consistencies, which, without either, we remain consistently divided! Now it is time for the NCAA and NCAA President Charlie Baker to step up and show leadership. I look forward to seeing our country’s patriotism on full display this weekend during the Final Four tournament.”