Angel Reese stands by her gesture towards Caitlin Clark, highlighting double standard and embracing her true self after LSU national title victory.

LSU star Angel Reese has defended her gesture towards Caitlin Clark during the NCAA women’s basketball national championship game, stating that she does not take disrespect lightly. Reese was seen making a hand gesture popularized by WWE star John Cena, indicating “you can’t see me,” before pointing to her ring finger, potentially alluding to her newly-acquired championship ring. Clark had made a similar gesture earlier in the tournament.

This gesture has sparked debate, with critics calling Reese’s actions “classless” and labeling her an “idiot.” However, Reese highlighted the difference in reaction between her gesture and Clark’s, claiming that she had been critiqued and not fitting the desired narrative throughout the season. She explained that the gesture was for the girls who look like her, encouraging them to speak up and be unapologetically themselves.

Reese had an impressive performance in the championship game, scoring 15 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. She also won the Most Outstanding Player award for the women’s March Madness. In the post-game broadcast, Reese mentioned Clark’s similar gesture towards a Louisville opponent in the Elite Eight and expressed that she does not tolerate disrespect.

Clark, on the other hand, stated that she did not notice Reese’s gesture at the time and was focused on shaking hands with her opponents. She praised LSU and their coach, Kim Mulkey, for their tremendous season.

LSU head coach Mulkey claimed to have no knowledge of what occurred during the game. Despite the backlash, Reese received support from ESPN’s Holly Rowe and former NBA star Etan Thomas on social media. Rowe urged people to celebrate unapologetically confident young women, while Thomas pointed out the double standards in criticizing Reese’s gesture after overlooking Clark’s.

Reese acknowledged the negative reactions on social media throughout the season but said that they fuel her performance. She finished the season with impressive averages of 23.0 points and 15.4 rebounds, proving herself after transferring from Maryland.

Overall, Reese’s gesture has caused controversy, but she stands by her actions and believes that she has helped grow women’s basketball. While there are differing opinions on the matter, it is essential to recognize the talent and achievements of these young athletes.