LSU women's basketball defeated Northwestern State on Friday night. The Tigers are now 2-0 on the season, as Flau'Jae Johnson led the way in the victory. Johnson finished the game with 24 points on 10-16 shooting from the field and 2-3 shooting from beyond the arc. She added seven rebounds, two assists and two steals.
Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins are probably the two most popular players in women's college basketball at the moment. Bueckers, who plays for UConn, is expected to be selected first overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Watkins is becoming one of the best players in the game at USC. However, Johnson's contributions should not be overlooked.
Flau'jae Johnson is a star on and off the floor
When it comes to popularity, Johnson has unquestionably become one of the most well-known college basketball stars. Not only is she a terrific player, but she is also a rapper. Her career as a musical artist has no shortage of potential, but the same can be said for her basketball career.
Johnson averaged 14.9 points per game on 50.4 percent field goal and 38 percent three-point shooting during the 2023-24 season. She added 5.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 2.1 steals and 1.0 blocks per outing. She was often overshadowed by Angel Reese, though.
Reese now plays in the WNBA, however. The former LSU women's basketball star played well in her WNBA rookie season. Johnson, though, now has an opportunity to lead LSU women's basketball. It would not be surprising to see her take a big step forward during the 2024-25 campaign.
Her effort on Friday displayed her high-ceiling. She was aggressive and did not display any hesitancy as LSU continued to build a lead. She wanted to do everything she could to lead the Tigers to the victory, and it is safe to say she accomplished that feat.
Johnson's 2024-25 outlook
Johnson has a chance to enjoy a truly special season in 2024-25. Of course, she would love to lead LSU women's basketball to a national championship. At the very least, Johnson should end up having a quality individual season.
LSU will be an exciting team to follow throughout the year. Perhaps they can make a competitive run in March. For now, Flau'jae Johnson and LSU will focus on building on the momentum from Friday's victory.