Angel Reese is set to return to the basketball court as LSU head coach Kim Mulkey confirms her participation in the Tigers’ top-ten matchup against No. 9 Virginia Tech on Thursday. Reese, who has not played since November 14, was benched at halftime during a game against Kent State.
Mulkey confirmed Reese’s return on Wednesday but did not disclose whether Reese would start or come off the bench. The Tigers have managed a 4-0 record in Reese’s absence, but they face a tougher challenge against Virginia Tech, with a rematch of the 2023 Final Four.
Ranked jointly at No. 7 in the latest AP Poll, the Tigers are tied with Colorado, who defeated LSU in their season opener. The Tigers have navigated a relatively mild non-conference schedule, but the game against Virginia Tech presents a formidable opponent.
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The Hokies, with a 5-1 record, boast ACC Player of the Year Elizabeth Kitley, averaging 24.3 points and 11.3 rebounds per game. The matchup is a rematch of the 2023 Final Four, where LSU secured a place in the National Championship Game.
Many took to social media to react to the news Reese will be back on the court:
While the Hokies faced a setback against then-No. 3 Iowa, they have shown resilience in recent games, narrowly defeating Kansas and Tulane. Virginia Tech’s dynamic duo of Kitley and Georgia Amoore poses a challenge for LSU, which is still finding its footing.
Angel Reese’s return to the court adds an extra layer of anticipation to the game.
