Flau’Jae Johnson Updates on WNBA Draft Decision

Flau’Jae Johnson is at a crucial crossroads in her basketball career, contemplating whether to enter the WNBA draft early or return for her fourth season with LSU. Turning 22 in November gives her the eligibility to make this significant decision.

After LSU’s recent 72-65 loss to UCLA, Johnson expressed that she has yet to finalize her choice, indicating the importance of discussing her future with Coach Kim Mulkey and her family. “I don’t know,” Johnson stated, reflecting her uncertainty about the next steps.

Johnson concluded her tournament journey with a performance in the Sweet Sixteen, where she scored 28 points, alongside 4 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 3 steals. This impressive showing, although not enough to secure a victory against the top-seeded Bruins, highlighted her potential.

LSU has faced elimination in the Elite Eight for two consecutive years, following their NCAA championship win in 2023. This year’s tournament saw Johnson display her skills, contributing significantly to her team despite the loss.

Assessing Flau’Jae Johnson’s WNBA Readiness

Throughout her three seasons at LSU, Johnson has averaged 14.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, showcasing her proficiency as a scorer and playmaker. Her three-point shooting percentage stands at 36.3%, indicating her capability to stretch defenses.

Her junior year marked a breakthrough, as she averaged 18.3 points per game and earned a spot on the All-American third-team. At 5’10”, Johnson possesses the attributes necessary to excel in the WNBA, including impressive speed and athleticism.

Additionally, she is among the women’s college basketball players committed to participating in Unrivaled, a new 3-on-3 women’s basketball league co-founded by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart. This opportunity remains available irrespective of her decision regarding the draft.

If Johnson opts to declare for the draft, she has the potential to be a lottery pick. Her LSU teammate Aneesah Morrow has already entered the 2025 WNBA Draft, joining a talented pool of prospects including UConn star Paige Bueckers, who is widely expected to be the first overall pick. Other top prospects include Dominique Malonga, Kiki Iriafen, Sonia Citron, Olivia Miles, and Shyanne Sellers. Johnson’s future in professional basketball looks promising, contingent upon her decision on returning for another college season.