Early in the women’s college basketball season, a social media feud sparked between the mothers of two LSU players, Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson. Angel Reese’s mother criticized Johnson’s grammar, while Johnson’s mother retaliated, accusing Reese of having a low GPA. Rumors swirled that Reese had been suspended from the team, although it was never officially confirmed. Reese, now in the WNBA, later posted on social media that she had graduated from LSU in four years on time, seemingly throwing shade at Johnson’s mother.
Despite the drama between the mothers, Reese and Johnson appeared to have a good relationship on the court. After LSU’s season ended, Johnson was seen consoling Reese during media availability, wiping away her teammate’s tears. Reese and the LSU Tigers went on to defeat Caitlin Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes in the 2023 national championship game. Reese later provoked criticism by pointing to her ring finger and taunting Clark after the win. However, Iowa got revenge the following season by defeating LSU in the Elite 8, but ultimately fell to South Carolina in the title game as the Gamecocks completed a perfect season.
Reese was drafted by the WNBA’s Chicago Sky with the seventh overall pick, while South Carolina’s Kamilla Cardoso was also selected by the team with the third pick. The feud between the mothers of Reese and Johnson brought attention to the off-court drama that can sometimes overshadow the success of players in women’s college basketball. Despite the social media skirmish, Reese’s accomplishments on the court, including winning a national championship and being selected in the WNBA draft, solidify her as a talented and successful athlete. Iowa’s revenge win over LSU and eventual loss in the title game to South Carolina showcased the competitiveness and unpredictability of the sport.
The social media feud between the mothers of Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson highlighted the personal stakes and emotional investment that can come with college athletics. The support and camaraderie displayed between Reese and Johnson on the court exemplifies the strong bonds that can be formed between teammates, even in the midst of external controversies. Reese’s graduation from LSU and subsequent draft selection in the WNBA serve as a testament to her dedication and hard work as an athlete. The drama surrounding the two players adds a layer of complexity to their careers, showcasing the challenges and successes that can come with competing at a high level in women’s college basketball.
