LSU Tigers guard Flau’jae Johnson has been making headlines with her outstanding performance this season. Despite being projected as a lottery pick in the ESPN mock draft, she made the decision to stay with the team for another season, becoming the undisputed star of coach Kim Mulkey’s squad after Angel Reese’s departure to the WNBA.
Recently, Johnson was named to the Team USA roster for the FIBA Women’s AmeriCup competition. In an interview during training with Team USA, she discussed her preparations and the qualities she hopes to bring to the team for the upcoming competition in Chile starting on June 28.
“It doesn’t matter who’s scoring most of the points, it doesn’t matter, you just want to impact the game,” Johnson said. “I feel like USA is gonna help me in that way, I’m not nervous, I came here to play. I’ve been working so hard me and my trainer. And just to see what I’ve been working on translate here, it feels good bro.”
Johnson emphasized her focus on improving her ball screen reads, scoring ability, defensive skills, leadership qualities, and controlling the pace of the game. She is determined to showcase her versatility and contribute in various aspects of the game.
Flau’jae Johnson’s impact on the LSU Tigers has been significant. Ranked as the No. 26 prospect in the Class of 2022, she chose LSU over other top programs like the South Carolina Gamecocks. Coach Kim Mulkey credited Johnson with jumpstarting the team during her tenure at Baton Rouge.
“I remember when I took the LSU job, Flau’jae Johnson was the first McDonald’s All-American that I signed at LSU,” Mulkey said. “She jump-started our program, really. And then the portal helped us. Flau’jae was a high school All-American and we got her. So I’m forever indebted to Flau’jae Johnson.”
During her freshman season, Johnson played a key role in helping the Tigers secure their first national championship under Mulkey’s leadership. Her contributions on and off the court have been vital to the team’s success.
In conclusion, Flau’jae Johnson’s dedication, work ethic, and skill set have made her a standout player for the LSU Tigers and a valuable asset to Team USA. Her commitment to improving and excelling in all aspects of the game will undoubtedly make her a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming FIBA Women’s AmeriCup competition.
