WNBA star Angel Reese showed public support for Leanna Lenee, wife of NFL rookie Travis Hunter, after a video of Lenee crying resurfaced online. The incident, which occurred last December, reignited conversations on social media, prompting Reese to offer encouragement during a difficult time.
Background on the Viral Video and Leanna Lenee’s Message
The video that sparked attention was shared on various platforms this week but was originally posted by Leanna Lenee last December. In the clip, she is seen crying, which she later explained was part of her personal growth journey. Lenee uploaded the video on TikTok with a reflective caption about her transformation over six months.
“The amount you can grow and develop in just 6 months of devoting your life to Jesus and getting away from the shackles of the world and social media is truly astounding. I wish the peace I found within Jesus on everyone who reads this. Your identity in him matters, not how people choose to perceive you.” —Leanna Lenee
Angel Reese responded to this post with a supportive comment, sending a message of hope and reassurance to Lenee.
“So proud of you bby! The storm doesn’t last forever!” —Angel Reese
Lenee replied warmly, expressing gratitude for Reese’s encouragement.
“Love u & thankful for your encouragement through it all xoxo.” —Leanna Lenee
Angel Reese Backed Leanna Lenee During Heisman Trophy Controversy
Leanna Lenee faced significant public scrutiny last December during the Heisman Trophy ceremony when Travis Hunter, then her fiancé, was awarded the honor. Lenee attended the event wearing a striking gown, attracting intense online criticism from fans. Despite the backlash, former NFL star Deion Sanders showed support by encouraging Lenee to celebrate Hunter’s achievement.
Angel Reese publicly defended Lenee on social media, addressing the negativity directed at her.
“leave that girl alone & let them be happy damn!” —Angel Reese
When confronted by a critic, Reese further asserted her stance on supporting fellow athletes regardless of public opinion.
“I don’t know that boy at all. I’m just supporting another athlete but why do yall care so much? AGAIN, they are happy. Yall wanna be internet relationship experts so bad. This is why we want to keep things private cause yall always gonna try to find SOMETHING.” —Angel Reese
Relationship Milestones of Travis Hunter and Leanna Lenee
Travis Hunter and Leanna Lenee have been together since 2022. After two years of dating, the couple got engaged in 2024 and shortly afterward married, just before Hunter’s NFL rookie season began. Their relationship has often been in the public eye, both for Hunter’s athletic accomplishments and Lenee’s presence at key moments.
Significance of Angel Reese’s Support
Angel Reese’s public backing of Leanna Lenee highlights the importance of solidarity among athletes and their families amid social media scrutiny. Reese’s encouragement during both the viral video resurgence and the earlier controversy demonstrates the impact positive support can have on individuals facing online criticism. As Travis Hunter progresses in his NFL career, the couple’s ability to navigate public challenges with encouragement from peers like Reese may help reinforce their resilience and privacy.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What caused Angel Reese’s injury?
A. “I injured my hand when I landed on it after scoring and getting fouled. It’s a minor bone fracture,” Reese explained in a TikTok video posted late Sunday. “The doctors said I could choose between having surgery or not.”
Q. Did Angel Reese get a degree?
A. Reese studied at Louisiana State University, focusing on interdisciplinary studies, and at the University of Maryland, College Park, where she pursued communications. She earned her degree from LSU in Interdisciplinary Studies, concentrating on Communication Studies, Leadership Development, and Psychology.
Q. What caused Angel Reese’s wrist injury?
A. Reese explained in a TikTok video that she injured her hand when she fell after making a basket. She discovered a small crack in her bone.
Q. What did Angel Reese’s parents do?
A. Basketball is part of the family’s history since both of Angel’s parents played the sport in college. Angel’s mom even played professionally in Luxembourg. “She taught me to be independent,” Angel shared with Just Women’s Sports in January 2023.