Kathy Johnson recently shared her perspective on LSU’s Angel Reese, who exited the NCAA women’s basketball tournament in 2024 after her team lost 94-87 to Iowa in the Elite Eight. Amidst the intensity of the game, Reese collided with the cameras along the baseline following a shot block, visibly hobbling as she made her way to the bench. Reese reinjured her right ankle but despite the setback, Angel Reese refused to attribute her performance to the injury.

Kathy Johnson’s vocal backing of Reese’s determination to play through the pain, coupled with her acknowledgment of Reese’s decision to exit, highlights her outspoken nature and unwavering support for athletes exhibiting resilience in the face of adversity.

Angel Reese, rising strong with support

In a heartfelt expression of admiration, Kathy Johnson recently took to X to convey her unwavering support for Angel Reese. Johnson’s words echoed a chorus of encouragement, affirming Reese’s resilience and unique spirit. “I second, third, and fourth this!” she exclaimed. “I love watching you play! I love watching you be you! I love watching you stand strong, play hard, light up your spirit, fight through, and lift yourself and your teammates up! Keep going, keep growing! You’re an Angel, a one and only you!”

However, Reese’s journey has been marked by challenges. Initially, she sprained her ankle last month during the SEC tournament and faced another setback during Monday night’s game. Despite her valiant effort, the injury visibly affected her performance, prompting a change in footwear at halftime for better ankle support.

Despite the struggle, Reese’s integrity shone through, as acknowledged by LSU guard Flau’jae Johnson: “She’s not going to make excuses. She’s just going to take that on the chin.” Reese’s determination amidst adversity, coupled with the support of her teammates and mentors like Kathy Johnson, serves as a testament to her strength of character. However, after that match, Reese cried, not for her loss, but for other reasons as well.

Struggle beyond defeat

Reese found herself unable to contain her emotions during a post-game press conference following her team’s defeat against Iowa. The 94-87 loss in the 2024 NCAA Tournament Elite Eight wasn’t solely responsible for Reese’s tears; rather, it was the relentless onslaught of criticism and hostility she has endured since clinching the national championship the previous year.

Despite the joy experienced in the championship win, Angel Reese, a towering 6-foot-3 junior forward, has been besieged by disparagement and attacks, particularly stemming from her interactions with Iowa’s star player, Caitlin Clark, during the 2023 NCAA title game. Regrettably, some of these criticisms have been linked to issues of racism and misogyny, casting a shadow over Reese’s achievements and leaving her visibly shaken in the face of unwarranted hostility.

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