A Rising Star in College Basketball
Flau’jae Johnson has made a significant impact during her junior season with Louisiana State University (LSU), quickly becoming one of the most formidable guards in college basketball. Standing at 5’10", this Savannah native is a masterful playmaker, known for her agility and creativity on the court. Johnson’s style of play is characterized by her use of feints, crossovers, and precise flicked finishes, making her a constant threat and a joy to watch. Her talent has not gone unnoticed, as she was ranked the third-best prospect in Aneela Khan’s 2026 WNBA mock draft. This recognition underscores her potential and the high esteem in which she is held by basketball enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Setback: Shin Inflammation
However, Johnson’s brilliance has temporarily been overshadowed by an injury. According to multiple sources, including head coach Kim Mulkey, Flau’jae Johnson will miss the entire SEC tournament due to shin inflammation. The news was revealed during LSU’s pregame radio broadcast on Sunday, where Mulkey explained that Johnson has been dealing with the condition since the team’s game against Texas. Despite the pain, the medical staff has not advised her to stop playing, as it is primarily a matter of pain tolerance. Johnson was spotted wearing a walking boot on her right leg during warmups, a clear sign of the discomfort she has been experiencing. This will be her second missed game in three seasons, with the previous absence being the only other time she wasn’t on the court. In the Tigers’ most recent game, an 88-85 overtime loss to No. 20 Alabama, Johnson managed just six points, her lowest output of the season. Coach Mulkey acknowledged that Johnson’s performance has dipped in the last couple of weeks, adding, "We’re going to rest her through the SEC Tournament because it doesn’t affect us. She’s dealt with shin inflammation since the Texas game. The doctor and trainer wouldn’t shut her down because it’s a pain tolerance thing."
A Season of Highs and Lows
The SEC tournament, running from March 5-9, will be the first major test for LSU without Johnson. The Tigers, currently boasting a 27-3 record (12-3 in SEC play), were defeated 85-77 by Ole Miss in their regular-season finale at home. They will enter the tournament as the No. 3 seed, a testament to their strong performance despite the recent setback. Johnson’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, as she has been a key contributor and leader for the team. Her recent struggles have not only impacted her individual performance but also the team’s chemistry. Johnson expressed her disappointment and contrition on X (formerly Twitter) following LSU’s loss to Alabama, saying, "This on me, I’m playing my worst basketball. I’m sorry yall, ima bounce back." Her words reflect her commitment to the team and her determination to regain her top form.
The Road to Recovery
Johnson is expected to miss at least a week of action, but her absence will likely extend until the NCAA tournament, which begins with the First Four on March 19 and the main tournament on March 21 or 22. This gives her approximately three weeks to rest and recover, a crucial period for an athlete of her caliber. While LSU has not provided a specific timetable for her return, it is clear that the team and coaching staff are prioritizing her health over the immediate concerns of the SEC tournament. The hope is that with this extended rest period, Johnson will be able to shake off the shin inflammation and come back stronger for the NCAA tournament, where LSU will need her at her best to compete at the highest level.
Johnson’s Impressive Season Statistics
Before her injury, Johnson’s 2024-25 season was nothing short of spectacular. She averaged 18.9 points per game, making her the leading scorer for No. 7 LSU. Her overall game was well-rounded, with 5.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. Johnson’s defensive presence was also notable, with 0.8 blocks per game. Her shooting efficiency was impressive, hitting 46.5% of her field goals, 37.2% of her 3-pointers, and 80% of her free throws. These statistics highlight her versatility and the significant role she plays in LSU’s success. Her absence in the SEC tournament will test the depth and resilience of the Tigers, but it also provides an opportunity for other players to step up and fill the void.
The Impact on LSU
Johnson’s injury leaves a significant void in LSU’s lineup, particularly as they prepare for the SEC tournament and the NCAA playoffs. Her scoring and playmaking abilities are crucial to the team’s success, and her leadership on the court is invaluable. Without her, the Tigers will need to rely more heavily on other players to pick up the slack. This challenge, while daunting, could also serve as a valuable learning experience for the team, fostering greater cohesion and depth. Coach Mulkey’s decision to rest Johnson is a strategic one, aimed at ensuring that she is fully fit and ready to contribute her best during the NCAA tournament. LSU’s fans and the basketball community at large will be closely watching the team’s performance in the coming weeks, hoping to see a strong showing that bodes well for March Madness.
