The LSU women’s basketball team is entering a new chapter following the offseason departures of star forward Angel Reese and guard Hailey Van Lith. In this pivotal moment, Flau’jae Johnson is stepping up as a leader for the Tigers, showcasing her potential as she prepares for her junior season.
Embracing Leadership
Johnson, a star guard for LSU, is taking on an expanded leadership role in the wake of her teammates’ exits. Over the past two years, she has been a key player for the Tigers, helping secure a national championship and an Elite Eight berth. With impressive stats across 72 games—starting in all but two—she has averaged 13 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Now, she is expected to guide the team through a challenging 2024-25 campaign.
Despite the loss of two significant contributors, Johnson remains steadfast in her ambition. “Winning another championship title is the goal,” she stated. Anything less would feel like a failure to her. Johnson’s mindset is clear: “I like to just shoot for the moon and work really hard and try to see where I land. It’s on me to make a big splash.”
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Strong Start to the Season
In a recent exhibition match against Xavier, Johnson demonstrated her leadership and skill with a commanding performance, scoring 30 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. She shot 13-of-19 from the field and 2-of-4 from three-point range, continuing her momentum from last season.
LSU head coach Kim Mulkey praised Johnson’s growth, stating, “[Flau’Jae] was phenomenal… she’s a leader because she has all the experience and puts in the work.” Johnson’s chemistry with teammates, especially in dominating performances, has been evident as the team gears up for the season.
Balancing Basketball and Music
Johnson’s success is not limited to the basketball court. Off the court, she is a talented podcast host and rapper, having released her debut EP, “Best of Both Worlds,” in June. She believes that the challenges she faces in basketball help her grow as an artist and vice versa. “What I learn in basketball about pushing through challenges translates into my music career,” she noted.
“I truly believe you can be good at two things and also be successful if you put in the work. We don’t have to be one-dimensional. I’m blessed to have these opportunities, so why not take advantage of them?” This philosophy reflects Johnson’s commitment to her dual passions.
An Unmatched Energy
Regardless of the endeavor, Johnson brings an unmatched energy to everything she does. Basketball remains her first love, and her enthusiasm for the game is contagious. “I love the game, so I’m really energetic about it,” she said. “I get locked in, I get serious, but I try to just have a lot of fun and bring a lot of energy. I’m like an Energizer bunny.”
As the LSU women’s basketball team navigates this transitional phase, all eyes will be on Flau’jae Johnson. Her leadership and determination could be key to the Tigers’ pursuit of another championship title, ensuring her legacy as a pivotal figure in LSU basketball.
Stay tuned for more updates on Johnson’s journey as she leads the Tigers into a new season!
