Why have Angel Reese and the LSU women’s basketball team refused the White House invitation?
Following their historic win on Sunday night, the LSU Tigers found themselves in the middle of a funny, but somewhat puzzling controversy involving the First Lady.
With the back and forth between the school’s star player and the First Lady herself now in full swing, it has been confirmed that the team won’t visit the White House.
What happened between the LSU Tigers and First Lady, Jill Biden?
In case you missed it, the LSU Tigers were crowned NCAA women’s basketball champions on Sunday night following their impressive 102-85 win over the Iowa Hawkeyes. Following the game, First Lady Jill Biden who was in attendance gave a statement which raised more than a few eyebrows.
“I know we’ll have the champions come to the White House, we always do. So, we hope LSU will come,” Biden said post-game. “But, you know, I’m going to tell Joe I think Iowa should come, too, because they played such a good game.” To be clear, teams that are crowned champions are typically invited to the White House in a tradition that dates back to the 1800s. Needless to say Biden’s suggestion that the losing team also be allowed to enjoy the privilege was met with immediate backlash, some of which even include racial overtones. So much so in fact, that it wasn’t long before her press secretary took to social media to clarify.
What has the White House said about Jill Biden’s comments?
In a statement posted to twitter, it was clear that the First Lady’s office was in damage control mode. Indeed, the need to do so was even more pressing after LSU star forward, Angel Reese, referred to Biden’s suggestion as “A JOKE” in a social media post of her own. On the night, Reece scored 15 points to go with 10 rebounds and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four.
“The First Lady loved watching the NCAA women’s basketball championship game alongside young student athletes and admires how far women have advanced in sports since the passing of Title IX,” press secretary Vanessa Valdivia said in the statement. “Her 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.” In case you’re wondering, Iowa has not responded to a request for comment, while LSU has given no official word on whether they will be visiting the White House. Yet, it’s worth noting that the Hawkeyes’ star player, Caitlin Clark did make it clear that she wouldn’t be going anywhere even if invited.