LSU women's basketball star Angel Reese didn't comment on head coach Kim Mulkey benching her in the second half of a win over Kent State on Tuesday.
Reese instead praised freshman Mikayla Williams after she scored 42 points on social media. Most of the first-year guard's scoring came with Reese on the bench.
After limiting Reese to 14 minutes, Mulkey called it a "coach's decision" and suggested a negative explanation.
After ridiculing Iowa player Caitlin Clark at last season's NCAA Tournament, Reese has divided college basketball fans. Some have criticized her attitude, while others have complimented her for energizing the sport. The 21-year-old said her NCAA Tournament antics showed her willingness to be herself.
Reese added: "I'm delighted Twitter will rage every time. I think I grew women's basketball this year. Super excited and joyful. So I'm excited to celebrate next season."
The predicted top-five WNBA Draft pick has handled LSU's early-season issues calmly. After a disappointing season-opening loss to Colorado, Mulkey criticized his veterans. Without protest, Reese accepted her coach's conclusion.
After Wednesday night's benching in a 109-79 triumph, Reese kept to herself, letting the club focus on the best players.
In 2022-23, the Baltimore native shot 52.5%, but this year she shot 46.9%. Her 3-point shooting is 0-for-5.
LSU's schedule offers morale-boosting wins. The club will be favored in its next four games against Southeastern Louisiana, Texas Southern, and Niagara twice.