Flau’jae Johnson, Angel Reese, and Hailey Van Lith

Angel Reese was visibly moved while she listened to her LSU teammates defend her character after Monday night’s loss to Iowa.

The Tigers’ hopes of winning a second successive national championship were dashed in what was a rematch of last year’s final, with Caitlin Clark and the Hawkeyes getting the better of them this time around to seal progression to the Final Four.

Reese, who registered a double-double of 17 points and 20 rebounds, fouled out of the contest with 1:45 left. LSU fought until the very end but could not avoid the 94-87 loss as Clark exploded for 41 points, hitting a record nine threes.

Flau’jae Johnson led the Tigers in scoring with 23 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. She would put up a fiery defense of her teammate, who has been under lots of media scrutiny since winning the championship last year, in the Tigers’ post-game presser.

“Everybody can have their opinion on Angel Reese, but y’all don’t know her. Y’all don’t know Angel Reese. I know Angel Reese,” Johnson said.

Reese was unable to hold back the tears after hearing Johnson speak up in her defense.

“I know the real Angel Reese and the person I see every day is a strong person,” she continued. “She’s a caring, loving person. The crown she wears is heavy. She’s the type of teammate that’s going to make you believe in yourself.”

Angel Reese tears up as Flau’Jae Johnson defends her from critics “Y’all don’t know Angel” pic.twitter.com/JcXDVOk5CL

— Gifdsports (@gifdsports)

April 2, 2024

Hailey Van Lith Also Put Up A Staunch Defense Of Angel Reese

Hailey Van Lith also spoke to Reese’s character after the game, claiming she has never seen such hate and negativity aimed at one person. Still, she insisted the criticism does not get to Reese, who is one of the toughest people she’s ever been around.

“Y’all do not get to her,” Hailey said. “Let me say it again: Y’all do not get to Angel Reese, so you might want to give it up. Throw the towel in. Because you’re wasting your energy. Angel is one of the toughest people I’ve been around.”

Reese is now faced with a major decision as she can opt to declare for the WNBA Draft or return to LSU for another year to help them reclaim the national championship.

She told reporters she will make a decision when she’s ready.