Caitlin Clark has come to the defense of LSU star Angel Reese, as the Iowa star spoke on ESPN’s “Outside the Lines” following the backlash to Reese’s celebrations as LSU knocked off Iowa to win the national title.

Near the end of LSU’s victory, Reese gestured toward her ring finger in the direction of Clark. She also mimicked the waving hand “can’t see me” gesture that Clark previously used in games, a move some fans felt was disrespectful.

Clark did not go along with the criticism of Reese, and said the game was competitive and that she has plenty of respect for Reese. Clark understood that trash talking was expected throughout the NCAA Tournament.

“We’re all competitive. We all show our emotions in a different way… Angel is a tremendous, tremendous player,” said Clark. “I have nothing but respect for her. I love her game.”

Clark said she doesn’t agree with the widespread reaction to Reese.

“I don’t think Angel should be criticized at all. No matter which way it goes, she should never be criticized for what she did,” Clark said. “I’m just one that competes, she competed. I think everybody knew there was going to be a little trash-talking the entire tournament, it’s not just me and Angel. I don’t think she should be criticized like I said, LSU deserves it, they played so well, and like I said, I’m a big fan of hers.”