Angel Reese defends her gesture towards Caitlin Clark following LSU national title victory, criticizes double standard and vows to authentically be herself
Dazzling LSU star Angel Reese has gracefully defended the recent gesture she directed at Iowa Hawkeyes’ Caitlin Clark during the thrilling Tigers’ first NCAA women’s basketball national championship triumph on Sunday, firmly stating, “I don’t take disrespect lightly.”
Reese was visibly depicted approaching Clark and swaying her open hand in front of her face, a move famously associated with WWE star John Cena’s “you can’t see me” gesture, followed by pointing to her ring finger, possibly signifying the spot for her newly-won championship ring.
This gesture triggered a storm of controversy, especially on social media. While some criticized Reese, others perceived her actions as justified, pointing out the lack of public outcry when Clark made a similar gesture earlier in the tournament.
Renowned sports journalist Jose de Jesus Ortiz labeled Reese’s actions as “classless,” with former ESPN host Keith Olbermann going further to call Reese an “idiot” for her response.
During the post-victory press conference, Reese astutely pointed out the differing responses to her gesture compared to Clark’s.
“All year long, I’ve faced critique for being myself. I defy the norm,” Reese declared. “I refuse to be boxed into an image you want me to fit. I’m too authentic. I’m too real. That’s what you told me all year. However, when others do it, you remain silent.
“So, this is my message to girls who resemble me—to those who stand up for their beliefs. It’s about fearlessly expressing yourself. And that’s precisely what I did tonight. This moment transcended me. Twitter will be ablaze, as always.
“And I’m content. I believe I’ve contributed to women’s basketball growth this year […] I eagerly await the celebrations and the coming season.”
With 15 points and 10 rebounds in the 102-85 victory, Reese not only excelled on the court but also clinched the women’s March Madness’ Most Outstanding Player accolade.
In the post-match broadcast, Reese referred to Clark’s similar gesture to a Louisville opponent during the Elite Eight.
Amidst the numerous reactions, it was highlighted that Clark retorted to an opponent during the Elite Eight game, saying, “You’re down by 15 points. Shut up,” as reported by the Bleacher Report.
“Caitlin Clark is undeniably skilled, but I don’t tolerate disrespect,” Reese expressed. “She disrespected [LSU’s] Alexis […], and I was ready to outshine. However, I had my moment towards the end of the game. I was in my element, it was my time.”
Post the Championship game, Clark mentioned she did not notice the incident at the time.
“I was focused on heading to the handshake line, showing gratitude that my team was in that position,” Clark explained during the post-game press conference. “All credit to LSU. They were exceptional. They truly deserve it. They had a phenomenal season.
“Coach Kim Mulkey’s guidance was outstanding. She’s one of basketball’s all-time best coaches, and it reflects in her players. She only shared kind words with me during the handshake, and I’m truly grateful for that.
“But honestly, I was simply soaking in the last court moments, especially with the five individuals I’ve shared 93 games with, cherishing every second.”
LSU head coach Mulkey admitted she was unaware of the whole scenario.
Among the social media defenders of Reese were ESPN’s Holly Rowe and former NBA star Etan Thomas.
Rowe emphasized on Twitter, “Stop the hate towards Angel Reese or Caitlin Clark. Confident young women should be lauded unapologetically, NOT criticized. Embrace it.”
Thomas, a former Washington Wizards, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Atlanta Hawks player, added, “Hold up! It was all fun when Caitlin Clark did it. No backlash whatsoever. So, don’t suddenly raise issues of grace and sportsmanship when Angel Reese mirrors the same. We’re not tolerating double standards here.”
Reese credited the season-long negative social media reactions for driving her towards an outstanding season, culminating in an average of 23.0 points and 15.4 rebounds in her debut season with LSU, post her transfer from Maryland.
“Let Twitter say what they want,” Reese confidently stated. “I enjoy going through those comments. I’ve taken screenshots of all the remarks made about me this season. What’s the verdict now?”