LSU Star Angel Reese Confronts Death Threats and Criticism with Tears. In the aftermath of a heart-stopping Elite Eight game in the 2024 NCAA women’s tournament, LSU’s Angel Reese has bravely stepped forward to reveal the darker side of her ascent to basketball stardom. Despite an outstanding performance on April 1 that saw LSU narrowly miss out on victory against Iowa with a score of 94-87, Reese’s post-game conference was not just a recap of the game but a heartfelt account of her harrowing experiences with death threats and severe criticism.
Angel Reese, a forward for the LSU Tigers, has been no stranger to the spotlight, having led her team to the 2023 NCAA women’s tournament championship. However, the price of fame has been steep. In an emotional disclosure, Reese shared the extent of the negativity directed towards her, saying,
“I’ve been through so much. I’ve seen so much. I’ve been attacked so many times. Death threats. I’ve been sexualized. I’ve been threatened. I’ve been so many things and I’ve stood strong every single time.”
This shocking revelation casts a shadow on what has been a meteoric rise for Reese, highlighting the unseen battles athletes often face. Her teammates, including LSU guards Flau’Jae Johnson and Hailey Van Lith, rallied to her defense, emphasizing Reese’s strength and positive character amidst the onslaught of hate.
Flau’Jae Johnson praised Reese’s resilience, stating, “Everybody can have their opinion on Angel Reese, but y’all don’t know her. I know the real Angel Reese, and the person I see every day is a strong person, a caring, loving person. The crown she wears is heavy.” Similarly, Hailey Van Lith underscored the unwarranted nature of the hate directed at Reese, marveling at her ability to remain unaffected and dedicated to her sport and life.
Reese’s competitive spirit on the court has been a double-edged sword, attracting both admirers and detractors. Her rivalry with Iowa’s Caitlin Clark, the Division I top scorer, has been a particular focal point. Notably, during the 2023 title game, Reese’s gesture mimicking John Cena’s “You can’t see me” taunt, though meant in the spirit of competition, drew considerable attention and criticism. Yet, Reese and Clark’s post-game embrace after their recent face-off underscores a mutual respect that transcends the competition.
Amid the trials, Reese’s message remains one of perseverance and authenticity.
“I just want all of you to know I’m still a human,”
she emphasized, addressing the emotional toll of her experiences. Despite the challenges, Reese’s spirit remains unbroken, fueled by the hope that her journey can inspire the next generation of athletes to stay true to themselves, regardless of the hardships they may encounter.
Angel Reese’s ordeal is a sobering reminder of the need for a greater emphasis on mental health and the protection of athletes from online harassment and threats. It also serves as a call to action for fans, media, and the sports community at large to foster a more supportive and respectful environment for players who give their all on and off the court.
As Angel Reese continues to navigate the complexities of life in the public eye, her courage and resolve in the face of adversity stand as a powerful testament to her character, not just as an athlete, but as a beacon of inspiration for many who look up to her.
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