“We love the girls’ game”: LeBron James hails ‘icons’ Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese for women’s basketball popularity

LeBron James acknowledged the impact of “icons”such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese on the growing popularity of women’s basketball. The viewership of the women’s NCAA tournament on ESPN has been breaking records, surpassing that of the men’s NCAA tournament and solidifying its position as a fan favorite.

During his postgame interview on Wednesday night, James was questioned about the increasing popularity of women’s sports in the country. He specifically mentioned Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese as two standout athletes who have captured the attention of many.

“I think the popularity comes in is the icons that they have in the women’s game,”James said.

“You look at Angel Reese, you look JuJu (Watkins), you look at Caitlin Clark, you look at Paige (Bueckers), you look at the young girl that’s in Iowa State, the Freshman (Audi Crooks), you look at (Cameron) Brink, I believe her last name is at Stanford and that’s just the name a few. The freshman that’s at Notre Dame (Hannah Hidalgo).”

He continued:

“They are not allowed to go to the (W) NBA, I think. They have to stay all four years.. .. You were able to build like a real like iconic legacy at a program, and that’s what we all love about it. That’s what we all love, and we love the girls’ game because of that moment.”

As a dedicated basketball fan, LeBron James is closely following the women’s NCAA tournament. Caitlin Clark has been the driving force behind all the excitement, and she has certainly lived up to expectations.

It is anticipated that Clark will participate in the WNBA draft and be chosen as the top pick by the Indiana Fever. Similarly, Angel Reese has announced her entry and is expected to be selected in the first round.

LeBron James enjoys watching the women’s Final Four

Despite facing their toughest road trip, LeBron James and the LA Lakers emerged victorious. The team recorded an impressive 5-1 record during their six-game journey, securing wins against formidable opponents such as the Milwaukee Bucks and the Brooklyn Nets. Their only loss came against the Indiana Pacers, but they have successfully maintained their position at the No. 9 spot.

The Lakers’ next destination is Los Angeles for a three-game homestand, with their first game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday. This allows James to have ample time to tune in and watch the women’s Final Four on Friday.

Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes will be going up against Paige Bueckers and the UConn Huskies, while the South Carolina Gamecocks will be taking on the North Carolina State Wolfpack.