LSU Tigers' Angel Reese Opens Up About Facing Adversity After NCAA Victory

LSU Tigers player Angel Reese shared that she has faced numerous attacks in the past year, as her team exited the NCAA women's basketball tournament on Monday. Reese and LSU were defeated 94-87 by Iowa in the Elite Eight, led by Caitlin Clark, in a highly anticipated rematch from last season's championship game.

After what might have been her last college game, a tearful Reese opened up about the challenges she has faced since winning the 2023 NCAA championship. She shared, “I have gone through a lot. I have witnessed a lot. I have been targeted numerous times. Received death threats. I have been objectified. I have been intimidated.

Despite everything, I have faced, I have remained resilient each time. My main goal is to stay strong for my teammates because I want to be a source of support for them. I don’t want them to see me falter and not be there for them. At the end of the day, I am just like anyone else - I am human.”

LSU star forward Angel Reese after the Tigers' 94-87 loss to Iowa in the Elite Eight

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Reese mentioned that she hasn't felt happy since winning the NCAA women's basketball championship last year, which was LSU's first. However, she also stated that she wouldn't change anything.

In the final game for the title last year, the 21-year-old player went up to Clark and did a playful "you can't see me" gesture, inspired by WWE star John Cena. She then pointed to her finger, hinting at her upcoming championship ring.

That moment became the highlight of the most-watched women's college basketball game in history. The rivalry between the two players was a big topic before the rematch on Monday.

Reese shoots against Iowa in the Elite Eight.

Reese shoots against Iowa in the Elite Eight.

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Reese mentioned that she was playing the "villain role" against Clark, but clarified that they do not actually hate each other. They are just really competitive on the basketball court.

After the game, they both showed respect for one another by encouraging each other to continue being great players.

Clark, the all-time leading scorer in Division I history for both women and men, put up an impressive performance against LSU. She scored 41 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out 12 assists. Clark also made 9 out of 20 three-point attempts. On the other hand, Reese contributed 17 points and an incredible 20 rebounds. This marked her 10th consecutive double-double in the NCAA tournament.

It remains uncertain whether Reese will continue playing for LSU or if she will opt to declare for the upcoming WNBA draft. Many experts predict that she will be a first-round pick in the draft.

Reese reflected on her challenging past year during the post-game press conference. She expressed gratitude for her teammates, support system, hometown, and family who stand by her. Despite not always being able to speak out, she emphasized her commitment to staying true to herself.

She acknowledged that she often ignores issues and focuses on staying strong. Despite this, Reese stated that she remains unapologetically herself. She is determined to always leave her mark and stay true to who she is.

“The little girls that look up to me, hopefully, I give them some type of inspiration … Keep being who you are.”

Clark had a game-high 41 points against LSU as Iowa reached the Final Four of the NCAA women's tournament.

Clark had a game-high 41 points against LSU as Iowa reached the Final Four of the NCAA women's tournament.

Sarah Stier/Getty Images

Reese’s LSU teammates also honored her impact on the team.

"Everyone may have their own thoughts about Angel Reese, but you all don't truly know her," shared Flau'jae Johnson. "I know Angel Reese."

I know the true Angel Reese, and every day I see a strong, caring, and loving person. Despite the media's ridicule, she is my sister and we have been through challenges together.

Editor's P/S:

Angel Reese's