LSU’s star forward, Angel Reese, is making a comeback after missing the past four games and will return to the court when the Tigers face the No. 9 Virginia Tech Hokies.
Head coach Kim Mulkey, who had previously cited unspecified “locker-room issues” for Reese’s absence, expressed her excitement about the star player’s return.
Reese was notably absent during the Cayman Islands Classic, adding to speculation about the reasons behind her absence.
Mulkey, facing criticism for not disclosing details, downplayed the concerns and emphasized her focus on the team’s performance.
“Angel is back, and we are happy, happy, happy. We’re past it. We were past it after it happened,” Mulkey stated.
She acknowledged the challenges of handling media scrutiny, stating:
“It’s just we have to come in here and answer questions and that becomes aggravating.”
Reese’s last appearance was on Nov. 14 against Kent State, where she started but was benched for the entire second half. During her absence, the Tigers secured victories against Southeastern Louisiana, Texas Southern, and two games in the Cayman Islands Classic.
When questioned about Reese’s absence, Mulkey expressed irritation and emphasized the team’s hope for her swift return.
Regarding junior guard Kateri Poole, who also did not make the Cayman Islands trip, Mulkey mentioned that updates on her status would be provided upon the team’s return to Louisiana.
Despite Reese’s absence, the Tigers maintained a flawless record, going 4-0. In the season’s first four games, Reese showcased impressive stats, averaging 17.0 points, 10.3 rebounds per game, and shooting 46.9% from the field. As Reese makes her return, LSU anticipates bolstering its performance with the star player back in action.
