Angel Reese’s exchange with former LSU teammate Flau’Jae Johnson sparks debate
An anticipated matchup on the court took an unexpected turn when Angel Reese was approached during the final moments. An unanswered gesture between the former college teammates caught everyone’s attention.
The Seattle Storm defeated the Atlanta Dream 105-90 on June 27. This matchup marked the very first time these two players met as opponents in the WNBA.
Johnson looked surprised by the lack of response and paused for a moment on the court. The moment immediately divided observers. One side viewed the ignored handshake as a display of poor sportsmanship.
Others argued that the game was still active and the losing side remained locked into a competitive mindset. Many analysts pointed out that a postgame setting would have been a much better time for a friendly greeting.
Following the game, neither player made any public comments regarding the situation. Johnson appeared in the postgame media availability alongside her teammates, but the handshake topic was not addressed.
There is a backstory between these two athletes that adds weight to an ignored handshake.
From LSU champions to WNBA rivals
They built a connection while helping Louisiana State University win the 2023 NCAA championship together. The two athletes shared a close friendship during their time dominating the college ranks.
That relationship has changed over the last year. Both players have previously acknowledged that they are no longer as close as they once were, according to details from Sports Illustrated.
They have stated there are no hard feelings between them. Despite the shift in their personal bond, they have continued to respect each other’s professional careers.
During this specific game, the rookie guard delivered a brilliant performance to help secure the home victory. Johnson finished the night with 24 points, 11 rebounds, four assists, and two steals.
Reese finished with 17 points and 9 rebounds. The numbers show that Johnson outplayed her former teammate during their very first professional meeting, adding another layer to their evolving rivalry.
Both players are currently putting together strong individual seasons. Reese is averaging 14.8 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. Johnson is scoring around 12.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists during her rookie campaign.
