LeBron James defends Angel Reese amid backlash against LSU star

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

LeBron James appeared to defend LSU women’s basketball star Angel Reese following a social media uproar over an alleged lack of sportsmanship toward the end of the Tigers’ national title win.

Reese gave Iowa’s Caitlin Clark a taste of her own medicine when she pointed to her ring finger to signify LSU’s championship run and hit the John Cena "you can’t see me taunt" after Clark had done it after scoring a basket earlier in the tournament. Clark earned praise from Cena for it.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James handles the ball against the Rockets at Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, on April 3, 2023. (Erik Williams-USA Today Sports)

As Reese received a tremendous amount of blowback, James was among those who came to her defense. He retweeted sports media figures David Aldridge, Ryan Clark and Emmanuel Acho, who defended Reese. He also quote-tweeted a reaction to Reese’s performance.

Reese, who was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, explained herself to reporters and to ESPN after the game was over. Reese pointed out the media was quick to criticize her because she didn’t "fit the narrative." She said she didn’t hear any criticism about others doing the same celebrations.

"I’m happy. All year, I was critiqued about who I was. The narrative – I don’t fit the narrative. I don’t fit the box you all want me to be in. I’m too 'hood. I’m too ghetto. You told me that all year," Reese said.

LSU'S ANGEL REESE SUGGESTS DOUBLE STANDARD OVER CRITICISM AIMED AT HER: 'TWITTER IS GONNA GO IN A RAGE'

Iowa Hawkeyes guard Molly Davis drives to the basket against LSU Lady