LSU women’s basketball star Angel Reese recently expressed her hesitation about visiting the White House after First Lady Jill Biden extended an invitation to the University of Iowa’s basketball team. In an interview with I AM ATHLETE’s “Paper Route,” Reese stated that she doesn’t believe the second-place team should be given the opportunity to go just because they showed “good sportsmanship.” She added that if they were to lose, they would not be receiving an invitation.
Reese’s comments have since garnered attention from Lisa Bluder, the head coach of Iowa’s basketball team. Bluder tweeted that she was grateful for the first lady’s sentiments but believes that a day at the White House should belong solely to the champion, LSU and Coach Mulkey. Bluder added that she welcomes the First Lady and President to come to Iowa’s “House” – Carver-Hawkeye Arena – any time.
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Biden’s press secretary, Vanessa Valdivia, clarified the first lady’s comments, stating that her enthusiasm toward women’s empowerment in sports propelled her to congratulate both teams. Valdivia tweeted that the first lady’s comments in Colorado were intended to applaud the historic game and all women athletes. She looks forward to celebrating the LSU Tigers on their championship win at the White House.
The LSU women’s basketball team made history by winning the NCAA championship for the first time in school history in April 2021. The team’s head coach, Kim Mulkey, is no stranger to championship wins, having previously led the Baylor women’s basketball team to three national titles.
The invitation to the White House is a longstanding tradition that recognizes the accomplishments of sports teams and their coaches. It’s an opportunity for teams to meet the president and first lady and to be recognized for their hard work and dedication.
However, it’s not uncommon for teams to decline the invitation or express hesitation about accepting it. In recent years, several teams, including the Golden State Warriors and the Philadelphia Eagles, have declined invitations to the White House due to political differences.
In this case, Reese’s hesitation may stem from a belief that only the champions should receive an invitation to the White House. However, it’s important to note that the first lady’s invitation is intended to recognize both teams and their accomplishments.
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Regardless of the invitation, the LSU women’s basketball team’s championship win is a significant achievement that deserves recognition. The team’s hard work, dedication, and perseverance paid off, and they should be proud of their accomplishment. Whether they choose to visit the White House or not, the team has made history and will be remembered for their remarkable season.
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