Angel Reese Returns to LSU



Angel Reese is set for an emotional return to Louisiana State University (LSU) on May 2, when her team, the Chicago Sky, faces the Brazilian National Team in a preseason exhibition at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. This event marks Reese's first appearance back on the LSU court since her remarkable college career, which significantly contributed to establishing LSU's prominence in women's basketball.
A Historic Impact at LSU
During her time at LSU, Reese achieved historic milestones, including leading the Tigers to a national championship in 2023. She averaged 23 points and 15.4 rebounds per game that season, setting a record with 34 double-doubles, the highest in NCAA history. Additionally, she earned the title of Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament and holds the second-most double-doubles in LSU history with 61.
Coaches and Community Excitement
LSU head coach Kim Mulkey expressed enthusiasm for Reese's return, highlighting her significant role in building the program. Mulkey stated, "Angel played a major role in establishing our program at LSU, and I know our fans are going to be thrilled to have her back." The anticipation for Reese’s return underscores the strong connection between her and the LSU community.
Kamilla Cardoso's Special Matchup
The game is also significant for Chicago Sky center Kamilla Cardoso, who will compete against her home country’s national team for the first time. Cardoso previously represented Brazil in the 2024 FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament and played a key role in Brazil's victories at the 2023 FIBA Women's AmeriCup and the 2022 South American Women's Championship. "I am so excited to play against my former Brazilian national team," Cardoso remarked, reflecting on her journey and the importance of this matchup.
Anticipation for the Game
As Baton Rouge prepares for this exhibition, fans can look forward to an atmosphere filled with nostalgia and pride, celebrating two prominent basketball figures. The event is expected to showcase not only the competitive spirit of both teams but also the deep connections these athletes have with their roots and communities.
In other news, the Detroit Pistons and Philadelphia 76ers have submitted proposals to establish WNBA teams in their cities, reflecting a growing interest in women's basketball as the league experiences increased attendance and strong television ratings.
Detroit's Proposal
Leading the bid in Detroit is Pistons owner Tom Gores, who has assembled a notable ownership group that includes Lions owner Sheila Ford Hamp and former NBA stars Grant Hill and Chris Webber. Their proposal includes plans for a new WNBA practice facility and team headquarters, with games expected to be held at Little Caesars Arena, home to both the Pistons and NHL's Detroit Red Wings. Gores emphasized the economic benefits this initiative could bring to the city.
Philadelphia's Initiative
In Philadelphia, the 76ers' ownership group has been developing their bid since 2021. This proposal has the backing of Comcast as a minority stakeholder, along with support from comedian Wanda Sykes and her wife, Alex Niedbalski-Sykes. The new team is anticipated to play at a newly constructed arena in South Philadelphia, developed in collaboration with Comcast Spectator, Sixers owner Josh Harris, and Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker.
Competition for Expansion
Detroit and Philadelphia are both competing for the WNBA's 16th franchise, with other cities like Nashville, Houston, and Austin also in contention. The league has already announced expansion teams in the Bay Area, Toronto, and Portland, with the Golden State Valkyries set to debut this season. The Toronto Tempo and Portland franchise are expected to start play in 2026.
Future of Women's Basketball
The proposals from Detroit and Philadelphia highlight the increasing interest in women's basketball and the potential for the WNBA to expand its reach across the United States. As the league develops, the introduction of new teams will provide fans with more opportunities to engage with the sport and support local franchises.
In recent game action, the Boston Celtics narrowly defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 118-116, with Jayson Tatum hitting a clutch jumper with only 0.7 seconds left, marking the Pelicans' fifth consecutive loss.
Game Highlights
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 28 points, while Tatum contributed 27 points. Although Tatum was scoreless for much of the fourth quarter, he delivered when it mattered most, hitting the game-winning shot over CJ McCollum, who had just tied the game with a basket.
Pivotal Injuries
The Pelicans faced significant setbacks during the game, notably losing guard Dejounte Murray to a serious lower right leg injury in the first quarter. Murray, a vital contributor averaging 17.9 points and 7.6 assists per game, was unable to return after the incident, which occurred without any contact.
Performance Overview
Trey Murphy had a standout performance for the Pelicans, scoring a season-high 40 points, including eight three-pointers. Jose Alvarado added 20 points, while McCollum managed 17 points but struggled with his shooting, finishing 1 for 7 from beyond the arc.
Coaching Insights
Pelicans head coach Willie Green expressed concern regarding Murray's injury, indicating that further imaging would be needed to evaluate the extent of the damage. He also noted the team's ongoing difficulties, particularly as they were already missing several key players, including Zion Williamson, who is out due to a stomach illness.
Upcoming Matches
The Celtics will next face the Philadelphia 76ers, while the Pelicans are set to begin a challenging four-game road trip, starting with a matchup against the Denver Nuggets.







































