After a 4-game hiatus, Angel Reese is back and ready to shine on the basketball court for the LSU Tigers. The 6-foot-3 forward recently revealed that her absence was due to a much-needed mental health break, allowing her to reset and refocus within the team.
Key Takeaway
Angel Reese’s 4-game absence from the LSU Tigers was a necessary mental health break, allowing her to reset and refocus within the team. Reese emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health and urged others to realize that athletes have their own challenges and struggles. With support from her friends and a determination to move forward, Reese is excited to contribute to the team’s success. Congratulations also go to Coach Mulkey for reaching her 700th victory!
A Necessary Break for Mental Health
Reese’s return on Thursday against Virginia Tech was met with excitement from fans, who had been eagerly awaiting her comeback since her benching on November 14th. Head coach Kim Mulkey had kept the reason for Reese’s absence under wraps, leaving many curious about the situation.
However, Reese spoke candidly to the media after the game, explaining that the time away was crucial for her well-being. “Taking time to yourself is really important,” Reese said. “I feel like it’s just something important, resetting, refocusing within the team. I’m just happy to be back.”
Emphasizing the significance of mental health, Reese stated, “My mental health is the most important before anything, and I’m gonna make sure I’m okay before anything because I don’t want to cause any harm or discord in the locker room. I want people to realize that I’m not just an athlete. I’m a human, too. I go through things.”
Support and Moving Forward
During her absence, Reese received unwavering support from her true friends, including NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, who reached out to her every day. “We FaceTime every day, he checked on me, called me every single day to make sure I was good,” Reese shared.
Addressing the rumors and speculation surrounding her time away, Reese had a message for those who trashed her, insinuating that her break was due to academic struggles or a bad attitude. “Whatever stories were written, don’t believe everything you read,” Reese asserted. “I’m back and I’m happy. I’m here and I’m moving forward. I’m going to take this team and help take this team as far as I can.”
Congratulations to Coach Mulkey
Aside from Reese’s triumphant return, Coach Kim Mulkey achieved a significant milestone during this game as well. With LSU’s win, Mulkey secured her 700th victory, becoming the fastest coach to reach this milestone in both men’s and women’s basketball.
