Flau’jae Johnson Prepares for WNBA After Sudden LSU Departure | Women’s Basketball
Flau’jae Johnson’s journey through women’s basketball is at a pivotal moment following her unexpected departure from LSU. After the Tigers’ elimination in the Sweet 16 against Duke, she swiftly turned her focus toward the upcoming WNBA Draft.
Draft Preparations and City Honors
Just a week after her last game, Johnson received a ceremonial key to the city of Baton Rouge, reinforcing her significance to the community. With only nine days until the WNBA Draft, enthusiasm permeated her preparations. “This whole process is crazy,” she remarked. She has been actively training and participating in workouts to gear up for training camps, expressing excitement for her future.
NBA Draft Predictions
As anticipation builds, Johnson is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, scheduled for 6 p.m. on Monday in New York City. Recent mock drafts highlight her potential selection by:
- Chicago Sky, 5th overall pick (ESPN)
- Washington Mystics, 9th overall pick (The Athletic)
If selected within the first 15 picks, LSU will achieve a remarkable milestone with first-round selections in three consecutive drafts, a first for the program.
Financial Opportunities in the WNBA
After opting to return for her senior season rather than entering the previous year’s draft, Johnson will benefit from the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) ratified on March 24. This agreement significantly enhances rookie contracts, setting a minimum annual salary of $270,000, compared to the previous figures in the five-figure range. “Salaries going from 60K to 300K is a crazy leap,” Johnson stated, indicating her excitement about these changes.
Player Profile and Performance
Entering the WNBA, Johnson is recognized as a versatile athlete capable of scoring from multiple levels. Her senior year saw varying performance levels but included a career-high 39% shooting from three-point range. In her time with LSU, she averaged:
- 15.4 points per game over three seasons
- 18.6 points per game during NCAA Tournament games
- 47% overall shooting efficiency
Johnson’s capability to perform under pressure has made her one of the top scoring threats, positioning her as a valuable asset for any WNBA team. With only five players having scored more points in LSU history, Johnson’s legacy is well established.
Looking Toward the Future
As the draft approaches, Johnson remains grounded. “I don’t have any expectations,” she emphasized. With her talent and determination, she is ready to make her mark wherever she lands.
