Flau’Jae Johnson’s return to the court has been nothing short of inspiring. After missing the Southeastern Conference (SEC) tournament due to a right shin injury, the LSU guard made a triumphant comeback in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, leading her team to decisive victories and showcasing her unwavering determination.
In the opening round against San Diego State, Johnson donned a compression sleeve over her injured leg but showed no signs of limitation. She led the Tigers with 22 points, propelling LSU to a commanding 103-48 win. This performance set a new program record for the most points scored in an NCAA Tournament game, surpassing the previous record of 102 points from the 2023 national championship. Reflecting on her return, Johnson emphasized her commitment to energizing the team:
“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.”
Her impact was evident from the outset. LSU opened the game with an 11-0 run, highlighted by Johnson’s steal and layup, setting the tone for the rest of the match. The Tigers’ offense was firing on all cylinders, shooting 59% in the first half and connecting on six of their first ten three-point attempts. Johnson’s dynamic play and leadership were instrumental in this dominant performance.
Teammate Aneesah Morrow also made a significant contribution, recording her 28th double-double of the season with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Mikaylah Williams added 13 points, underscoring the depth and versatility of LSU’s roster. Coach Kim Mulkey praised the team’s unselfishness and ball movement, highlighting the collective effort that led to the victory:
“I think your word — unselfish — is pretty spot-on,” Mulkey said. “And I said that to them in a timeout. We had a lot of ball reversal; we shared the ball.”
Building on this momentum, LSU faced Florida State in the second round. The game was closely contested in the first half, with the Tigers holding a slim 50-49 lead at halftime. However, LSU erupted in the third quarter, outscoring the Seminoles 31-6 and ultimately securing a 101-71 victory. Johnson’s presence on the court continued to be a catalyst for the team’s success, as her energy and playmaking abilities fueled the decisive run.
Throughout the 2024-25 season, Johnson has been a standout performer for LSU. Averaging 19 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, she has demonstrated her versatility and consistency. Her shooting efficiency has also been noteworthy, with a 46.9% field goal percentage and 38.3% from beyond the arc. These impressive statistics have not only contributed to LSU’s success but have also positioned Johnson as a top prospect for the upcoming WNBA Draft. Despite being eligible, she has yet to announce her decision regarding entering the professional ranks.
Johnson’s resilience and determination have been evident throughout her collegiate career. Her ability to overcome adversity, such as the recent shin injury, and return to peak performance speaks volumes about her character and dedication. Her mindset entering the NCAA Tournament reflects a mature and team-oriented approach, focusing on providing energy and leadership to her teammates.
As the Tigers advance in the tournament, Johnson’s role will be pivotal. Her experience, coupled with her dynamic skill set, makes her a formidable opponent for any team. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching her performances, not only for their immediate impact on LSU’s tournament run but also for what they indicate about her future in professional basketball.
In addition to her on-court achievements, Johnson has also shown empathy and sportsmanship off the court. Following USC’s JuJu Watkins’ knee injury during the tournament, Johnson extended heartfelt support to her fellow athlete, exemplifying the camaraderie and mutual respect that define collegiate athletics.
Johnson’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of a positive mindset. Her ability to channel challenges into motivation has not only elevated her game but has also inspired her teammates and fans. As LSU continues its pursuit of a national championship, Johnson’s leadership and performance will undoubtedly be central to their quest.
In conclusion, Flau’Jae Johnson’s return from injury and her subsequent performances in the NCAA Tournament underscore her exceptional talent and unwavering determination. Her mindset, focusing on energizing and leading her team, has been a driving force behind LSU’s success. As she stands on the cusp of a promising professional career, Johnson’s journey serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience, leadership, and excellence in collegiate basketball.
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