Who is Angel Reese?
Angel Reese is a rising star in women’s college basketball, currently playing as a forward for the LSU Tigers. Born on May 6, 2001, in Baltimore, Maryland, Reese has quickly become one of the most talked-about players in the sport due to her impressive skills, fierce competitiveness, and memorable on-court moments.
Early Life and High School Career
Reese grew up in a basketball family, with her mother and aunt both playing college basketball. She attended St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, where she established herself as one of the top high school prospects in the country. Reese was ranked as the No. 2 overall recruit in the class of 2020 by ESPN.
College Career at LSU
In 2020, Reese committed to play for the LSU Tigers, instantly becoming a key player for the team. As a freshman, she averaged 17.8 points and 12.6 rebounds per game, earning SEC Freshman of the Year honors.
Sophomore Season and National Championship
Reese’s sophomore season in 2021-22 was even more impressive. She led the Tigers to their first national championship since 2007, averaging 23.0 points and 15.4 rebounds per game in the NCAA Tournament.
In the championship game against Iowa, Reese famously pointed to her ring finger and celebrated in front of Iowa star Caitlin Clark, sparking both criticism and praise for her competitive spirit.
Viral Moments and Controversy
Throughout her college career, Reese has been involved in several viral moments that have garnered both positive and negative attention.
Waving Goodbye to Anastasiia Boldyreva
In the 2023 NCAA Tournament, Reese drew criticism for waving goodbye to Middle Tennessee State’s Anastasiia Boldyreva after fouling her out of the game. Cameras showed Boldyreva in tears as she left the court, leading some fans to accuse Reese of poor sportsmanship.
Response to Critics
Reese has been unapologetic in the face of criticism, often using social media to address her detractors. After the incident with Boldyreva, Reese tweeted, “clickbait everything i do keep going viral,” suggesting that her actions are often taken out of context or blown out of proportion.
WNBA Prospects and Future
As one of the most talented players in college basketball, Reese is widely expected to be a top pick in the WNBA Draft when she becomes eligible.
Comparisons to WNBA Legends
Reese’s dominant play and confident demeanor have drawn comparisons to some of the greatest players in WNBA history, such as Lisa Leslie and Candace Parker. In a recent interview, Reese acknowledged the honor of being mentioned alongside such legends but remained focused on her own journey and growth as a player.
Potential Impact on the WNBA
Many experts believe that Reese has the potential to be a transformative player in the WNBA, bringing a new level of excitement and competitiveness to the league. Her unique combination of size, skill, and personality could make her a marketable star and help grow the popularity of women’s basketball.
Conclusion
Angel Reese is a rising star in women’s basketball, known for her incredible talent, fierce competitiveness, and unapologetic confidence. While her on-court antics have sometimes drawn criticism, there is no denying the impact she has had on the sport and the excitement she brings to every game.
As she continues her journey at LSU and eventually in the WNBA, fans can expect to see many more unforgettable moments from this remarkable young athlete.
