Flau’jae Johnson, the dynamic LSU Tigers star, has recently made headlines not only for her on-court prowess but also for her candid reflections on her evolving relationships within the basketball community. In particular, her comments about her former LSU teammate, Angel Reese, have sparked discussions about the complexities of friendships in the high-pressure world of elite sports.
The Rise of Flau’jae Johnson
At just 21 years old, Flau’jae Johnson has already established herself as a force to be reckoned with in women’s college basketball. A first-team All-Southeastern Conference and third-team All-American honoree, Johnson averaged 18.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.7 steals per game over 34 appearances during the 2024–25 season. Her impressive performance played a pivotal role in LSU’s 31–6 record and their deep run to the NCAA Tournament’s Elite Eight, where they were narrowly eliminated by UCLA .
Beyond her basketball achievements, Johnson has become a prominent figure in the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) landscape. With an estimated NIL valuation of $1.5 million, she has secured endorsement deals with major brands like Powerade, Puma, Amazon, and Experian . Additionally, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to sign an equity deal with the women’s 3-on-3 basketball league, Unrivaled, aiming to push the women’s game forward .
The Angel Reese Dynamic
Johnson’s relationship with Angel Reese, once considered inseparable, has been a topic of interest. In a candid revelation, Reese admitted that she and Johnson are “not as close as we used to be,” attributing the distance to their respective professional commitments and busy schedules. Despite this, Reese emphasized that there are “no hard feelings” between them
Johnson echoed these sentiments, stating, “I still support her 1000 percent,” and expressed pride in Reese’s achievements, including her selection as the seventh overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft . She also acknowledged that Reese’s success has motivated her to pursue her own professional aspirations.
Navigating the Transition to Professional Basketball
The decision to remain in college for another season, rather than declaring for the 2025 WNBA Draft, was influenced by several factors. Johnson recognized the potential for increased player salaries under the new WNBA collective bargaining agreement set to take effect in 2026. Additionally, she valued the opportunity to continue building her personal brand and capitalize on NIL opportunities during her senior year .
This strategic decision reflects a broader trend among top women’s basketball prospects, such as Notre Dame’s Olivia Miles, who also chose to remain in college to maximize their earning potential and professional development before entering the WNBA .
Looking Ahead
As Johnson prepares for her final collegiate season, she remains focused on leading LSU to another national championship. Her journey underscores the evolving landscape of women’s college basketball, where athletes are increasingly empowered to make decisions that align with their professional and personal goals. While her relationship with Reese may have changed, Johnson’s commitment to her growth and success remains unwaveri
In conclusion, Flau’jae Johnson’s story is one of ambition, resilience, and adaptability. Her ability to navigate the complexities of elite sports while maintaining a strong sense of self serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwid