Angel Reese needs little introduction.
Even in the face of adversity and criticism, Reese remains unapologetically herself, advocating for authenticity and self-expression.
Lisa Leslie: Congratulations, Angel!
All Images: courtesy of LSU / Design by Channing Smith
What an outstanding award.
Angel Reese:I was so excited!
Winning a national championship has been the icing on the cake, and I feel incredibly fortunate.
We were chatting earlier, and I know you used to run track.
Can you share a bit about your childhood?
Were you always involved in sports, or did you discover your love for them later?
I was active in sports from a young age.
I started playing basketball when I was four, and my mom introduced me to various other activities.
In high school I also dabbled in volleyball and even took up track alongside my involvement in softball.
Did you always have a clear aspiration to achieve what youve accomplished in basketball and play college ball?
No, I just wanted to play basketball and have fun and enjoy the game.
I didnt know I would have such a voice as I do now and be an inspiration to others.
I never envisioned Id be at the status that I am at right now.
Would you say that last year was one of those defining moments in your career thus far?
That period was incredibly challenging for me as a 17-year-old freshman and shook my confidence.
Dealing with such a significant injury was tough and marked my first major setback.
However, I managed to bounce back in my sophomore year and performed well.
Eventually I transferred, and I believe that was the turning point.
Making it onto the USA team felt like everything coming full circle for me this year.
Lets discuss that challenging period.
I understand how injuries can breed self-doubt and impact mental health.
How did you manage to navigate through it and come out stronger?
Do you have any advice or tools youd recommend to young athletes who may find themselves in similar situations?
That was my lowest point, for sure.
Journaling became a lifeline for me and something I picked up freshman year.
And I leaned on prayer, reading a verse every day to keep me going.
My coaches at Maryland were also incredibly understanding and supportive, as were my teammates.
Who would you say is your biggest supporter on your whole journey?
Shes been my rock, my everything.
My biggest goal was to secure a full college scholarship so she wouldnt have to worry about the expenses.
Ill graduate this year, and my brother will follow next year as he continues his education.
Seeing everything shes done as an independent Black woman has always inspiring.
Its been challenging, to be honest.
When Im on the basketball court, its all about business, total focus on the game.
At school Im dedicated to my academics.
But when Im home, thats my downtime.
Basketball seasons here, and youre back in school, gearing up with your team.
What songs get you pumped up?
Lets dive into that.
Whats your approach to building these strong bonds among women and empowering each other?
Everyone comes from diverse backgrounds and has different lives outside of the team.
Initially it was tough for me to adjust to being around girls every day.
Its actually quite enjoyable now.
We have each others backs, communicate regularly, and provide unwavering support.
I truly love themthese girls will be in my life forever.
Now, seeing you confidently embrace your authentic self and being celebrated, I feel like a proud mentor.
People often expect me to constantly showcase basketball on my Instagram and think its my entire life.
Balancing it can be tough.
Its about what I like.
Youve shown that you could be both girly and fiercely competitive on the court.
What are your top two or three beauty tips or must-have products?
I always have my edges done.
So its all about edges, lip gloss, and lashes.
Thats my go-to routine.
Now, lets give a shout-out to LSU.
How has your increased fame impacted your campus life?
It seems like your level of recognition has made it challenging to move around freely.
LSU has been incredibly supportive.
When I first joined LSU, I had around 70,000 followers, and now I have over 2 million.
They truly embrace you here and go beyond recognizing you as an athlete.
Our coaches understand that were not just athletes on the court but individuals with lives off the court.
They prioritize our success both on and off the court.
The LSU community has been exceptionally amazing to me, and its why Ive been affectionately named Bayou Barbie.
Baton Rouge has been an incredible place for me.
What are your basketball goals for the upcoming year and beyond?
So my main focus is being a positive leader for my team, especially with new players joining us.
Its been a challenging but rewarding four years, and Im excited to continue improving at LSU and beyond.
