‘I Was Pregnant, All These Crazy Things’ Angel Reese Keeps It Real On Her Puzzling Hiatus Last Season at LSU
Angel Reese, the standout star of LSU’s women’s basketball team, has finally addressed the rumors and speculation surrounding her unexpected hiatus during the last season. In a candid interview, the 21-year-old forward opened up about the mental and physical challenges she faced, shedding light on a period that left fans and analysts puzzled.
Reese’s temporary absence sparked a whirlwind of rumors, ranging from personal conflicts to health concerns. One of the most persistent whispers was that she might have been pregnant. Reese did not shy away from addressing this speculation head-on. “I heard everything—‘I was pregnant, I was transferring, all these crazy things,” Reese shared. “But none of it was true.” Instead, Reese revealed that she was dealing with burnout and the mounting pressures of being in the spotlight.
A Season Full of Highs and Lows
Reese’s rise to fame has been meteoric. Dubbed “The Bayou Barbie” for her vibrant personality and on-court prowess, she became a household name after leading LSU to their first-ever NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship in 2023. However, with fame came intense scrutiny, and the pressure to maintain her performance began to take a toll.
The hiatus was a much-needed break for Reese to recalibrate. “I was mentally and physically drained,” she admitted. “I needed time to focus on myself, to get back to loving the game.” While the specifics of her hiatus remain private, Reese emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health, especially for athletes constantly under the public eye.
The Rumor Mill
The speculation surrounding Reese’s absence highlighted a broader issue in sports: the invasion of athletes’ personal lives. Social media was rife with theories, and the absence of an official statement from LSU only fueled the fire.
“It’s crazy how people think they know your life,” Reese said. “Sometimes, you just need a moment to breathe without everyone watching your every move.” She also took the opportunity to thank her teammates and coaches for their unwavering support during her time away.
Returning Stronger Than Ever
Reese’s return to the court has been nothing short of spectacular. She’s averaging double-doubles and continues to be a cornerstone for LSU’s success this season. Beyond the stats, her renewed energy and focus are palpable. Reese credits her time away for helping her rediscover her passion for the sport.
“I’m in a better place now,” she said. “Taking that step back was the best decision I could have made for myself and my career.”
A Role Model for Many
By addressing the rumors and speaking openly about her struggles, Reese has further cemented her role as a trailblazer. Her candidness about mental health serves as a powerful reminder of the pressures athletes face and the importance of self-care.
As LSU gears up for another deep tournament run, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Angel Reese. But this time, she’s ready—not just as a player, but as a person who has grown through adversity.
“I’m just taking it one day at a time,” Reese said. “And I’m loving every minute of it.”