LSU's Angel Reese refuses to apologize over mocking Caitlin Clark and explains why she did it
LSU's Angel Reese went full John Cena after refusing to apologise over her taunts towards Caitlin Clark during the NCAA final.
During Sunday's women's final, the Baltimore-born basketball player waved her hand in front of her face imitating Cena's famous 'you can't see me' gesture aimed at Clark.
Watch below as Reese has unapologetically responded to her critics:
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Although LSU went on to beat Iowa 102-85, the focus was fully on Reese, as haters have branded the incident as 'classless' and 'disrespectful'.
However, the LSU star hit back at reporters during a press conference.
She said that no one complained when Clark, who is white, made the same gesture during an Elite Eight victory over Louisville.
Reese, who is Black, said: "All year, I was critiqued for who I was.
"I don't fit the narrative, I don't fit the box that y'all want me to be in. I'm too hood. I'm too ghetto.
"Y'all told me that all year. But when other people do it, and y'all don't say nothing.
"So this is for the girls that look like me, that's gonna speak up for what they believe in."
She continued. "It's unapologetically you. And that's what I did it for tonight. It was bigger than me tonight.
"And Twitter is going to go into a rage every time.
"And I'm happy. I feel like I've helped grow women's basketball this year.
"I'm looking forward to celebrating and the next season."
Commenting on the press conference, it seems that many were supportive of the 20-year-old's point of view, with one person writing: "I love it. so great. that's how winners think. you do you. don't worry about the haters. Champion."
Another fan tweeted: "We love you, sister. Keep being unapologetically you."
"You’re Black Angel and unfortunately racism still exist," a third added.
"Caitlin Clark had white privilege on her side but, you have Black Girl Magic.
"Trust me though they’re really mad at your coach complexion helping black girls be great."
Someone else thought: "Caitlin Clark has been s**t talking her opponents EVERY GAME.
"It's literally a part of who she is. No one complains about that. All people who are just hopping on the bandwagon need to go do their research...
"That said, Angel did her thing and represented. True competitor."
Although, not everyone was in agreement, as one person said: "Look at yourself and be accountable.
"If you are proud of your classless, non sportsmanship win, pat your self on the back.
"WE can have a different opinion. Go ahead and use your color as an excuse for going low. I don't see that.
"And you brought your team down with you."
Topics: Basketball, Sport
Anish Vij