Show summary Hide summary
LSU senior guard Flau’jae Johnson has quietly reshaped her role this season, moving beyond scorer to steadying presence as the Tigers regroup during a gritty stretch of SEC play. Her focus on honest leadership and visible energy has become a focal point for a team still processing early conference losses.
How Johnson stepped into a leadership spotlight
As the lone player left from LSU’s 2022–23 national title team, Johnson has accepted more than minutes on the court. She’s taken responsibility for team tone, seeking advice from coaches and former leaders. Her approach centers on being real with teammates and learning as much as teaching.
Nickelodeon star arrested after alleged Malibu burglary
Euphoria season 3: Sydney Sweeney left off set as feud with Zendaya intensifies
Intentionality and authenticity are the two traits she names most often. Johnson said she asks mentors how to lead better and works to make that growth visible to the roster.
Early SEC losses that tested the Tigers
LSU stumbled at the start of conference play, dropping back-to-back games to ranked opponents. The defeats prompted sharp words from coach Kim Mulkey about toughness and raised questions about the squad’s chemistry.
Energy and accountability
Johnson has been candid about her own influence. She noted that a player’s mood spreads fast. When her energy dipped, she realized the whole team could feel it. That awareness pushed her to change how she prepares and interacts before games.
Georgia game: a clear sign of momentum
The Tigers answered critics with a decisive 80-59 victory over Georgia. Johnson led the way with 25 points, including a dominant 15-point burst in the fourth quarter that helped seal the game.
- Final score: LSU 80, Georgia 59
- Johnson: game-high 25 points
- Fourth quarter: 15 points from Johnson to pull away
- Milestone: Johnson became the ninth player in program history to pass 1,800 career points
Mulkey praised the performance as the best example of the leadership she expects. Johnson also spoke to her teammates before tipoff, urging belief and unity. She said that putting the team first helped spark a reciprocal lift in energy.
What this means for LSU’s SEC journey
With conference play ongoing, LSU faces a stiff test when it hosts No. 2 Texas. How Johnson sustains her leadership will matter for the Tigers’ consistency.
Key aspects to watch:
- Whether Johnson can maintain high energy across games.
- How younger players respond to her guidance on and off the floor.
- Coach Mulkey’s adjustments to emphasize toughness and cohesion.
Reporting included information from the Associated Press and coverage by Meghan L. Hall of USA TODAY Sports.
