Angel Reese, the star forward for LSU’s women’s basketball team, recently opened up about her strained relationship with teammate Flau’jae Johnson, marking the first time she has publicly addressed the issue.
Reese, who has been a central figure in LSU’s success, has gained immense popularity both on and off the court, and her relationship with Johnson, another standout player, had sparked speculation after reports of tension between the two surfaced.
Reese acknowledged that she and Johnson have experienced challenges in their relationship, especially as both players have risen to national prominence. Reese noted that the combination of competitive dynamics and the pressure of high expectations has contributed to some friction. “When you have two strong personalities on the same team, there are bound to be moments where things don’t always align,” Reese stated. “Flau’jae and I both want to win, and sometimes our passion can lead to disagreements.”
While the media and fans speculated about a deeper rift, Reese clarified that there was no ongoing feud between her and Johnson. She emphasized that disagreements are a natural part of team dynamics, especially at the elite level where competitive intensity is high. “We’re like sisters—we argue, we have our differences, but at the end of the day, we both want what’s best for this team,” Reese said.
The strained relationship between the two was reportedly amplified by their off-court personas. Reese, known for her bold confidence and swagger, has become one of the most visible figures in women’s college basketball, attracting attention for her play and her outspoken nature. Johnson, a talented guard who balances her basketball career with a burgeoning rap career, brings her own unique energy to the team. Their contrasting styles and personalities sometimes clashed, but Reese stressed that their differences didn’t outweigh their shared goal of success.
Despite the occasional tension, Reese reaffirmed her commitment to LSU and to working with Johnson for the betterment of the team. “We’re focused on the bigger picture—bringing home another championship,” Reese said. “We know what we’re capable of when we’re united.”
The LSU Tigers, fresh off their 2023 national championship victory, are looking to build on that momentum, and Reese made it clear that any personal challenges between her and Johnson won’t get in the way of their pursuit of continued excellence.