LSU forward, Angel Reese. Courtesy of LSU Sports.
The LSU Lady Tigers returned to Baton Rouge Monday as national champions in women’s basketball. LSU had five players score in double figures in a 102-85 victory over Iowa. The 102 points are the most scored in an NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship game.
The historic performance is being overshadowed on the national stage by Angel Reese’s celebration that had her waving her hand in front of her face like professional wrestler John Cena and his “You can’t see me gesture.” Iowa superstar Caitlin Clark did a similar celebration during the Hawkeyes Elite Eight victory over Louisville.
Many on social media called it poor sportsmanship, but Reese says all year she was critiqued about who she is.
“I’m too hood, I’m too ghetto. Y’all told me that all year, but when other people do it, y’all don’t say nothing,” said Reese.
Footage of Reese waving her hand in Clark’s face went viral before the Tigers received the championship trophy Sunday and during the post-game press conference, the Baltimore native defended her actions.
“So, this is for the girls that look like me, that’s going to speak up in what they believe in. It’s unapologetically you. And that’s what I did it for tonight, it was bigger than me tonight,” said Reese.
After the game, Clark praised Reese and congratulated LSU on their victory. When asked about the taunting Clark, who appeared to be looking towards the Iowa bench, said she didn’t see it. The 2023 Women’s Final Four was the most viewed women’s college basketball program for ESPN and Reese said she’s proud to be part of the sport.
“Twitter’s going to go on a rage every time. I’m happy, I feel like I’ve helped grow women’s basketball this year, and I’m super happy and excited. So, I’m looking forward to celebrating and the next season,” said Reese.
Reese is among nine new players on the team this season and it’s LSU’s first National Championship in women’s basketball.
Comments