LSU women's basketball recently defeated San Diego State in an NCAA Tournament affair, winning by a final score of 103-48. Flau'Jae Johnson, who was returning from injury, led the Tigers with 22 points. Johnson later revealed her mindset following the NCAA Tournament victory, via ESPN.
"I told myself when I came back that I wanted to be the energy for the team," Johnson said. "I know that's what we needed."
Johnson has emerged as a star with LSU. LSU ultimately entered the tournament as the No. 3 seed, as Johnson played a pivotal role in the team's success throughout the season.
The 21-year-old, currently in her third year with LSU, averaged 19 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.7 steals per game during the 2024-25 campaign. She also shot 46.9 percent from the field and 38.3 percent from beyond the arc. Johnson played in a total of 31 games with LSU during the season.
She has continued to improve throughout her college basketball career. Johnson displayed signs of stardom throughout her first two years, and she has taken a big step forward this season.
It remains to be seen if Johnson will declare for the 2025 WNBA Draft. Perhaps LSU's performance throughout the remainder of the NCAA Tournament will play a role, although that is only speculation. Johnson has yet to announce a decision, however. Given her play this year, she will likely be among the top prospects if she does indeed declare for the draft.
If Johnson decides to wait, though, she would possibly be in contention to be the number one overall pick next year. UConn women's basketball guard Paige Bueckers is expected to be selected first overall in the upcoming 2025 WNBA Draft.
Either way, Johnson's basketball future is bright.
LSU women's basketball hoping to make deep NCAA Tournament run
As mentioned, the LSU women's basketball team earned a first round victory against No. 14 San Diego State. They are set for a challenging second round matchup against No. 6 Florida State. LSU, as the No. 3 seed, remains in the driver's seat. Still, the contest projects to be quite competitive.
The good news is that Flau'Jae Johnson is ready to lead the Tigers once again. She clearly is ready for the big moments in the tournament.
LSU and Florida will go head-to-head on Monday night at 6 PM EST as the Tigers hope to advance to the next round.