Flau’jae Johnson, a dynamic guard for the LSU Tigers, has recently made significant decisions impacting both her basketball career and personal endeavors. Choosing to forgo the 2025 WNBA Draft, Johnson will return for her senior year at LSU, sparking discussions about her future in collegiate basketball and potential transfer options. Beyond the court, Johnson has been actively involved in groundbreaking Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, including a landmark partnership with the professional women’s 3-on-3 league, Unrivaled. Additionally, her collaboration with Experian aims to alleviate $5 million in debt for Louisiana families, showcasing her commitment to community empowerment.SI+4Swish Appeal+4News Minimalist+4News Minimalist+3New York Post+3The US Sun+3The US Sun+2SI+2Sporting News+2AfroTech
Early Career and Impact at LSU
Since joining LSU in 2022, Flau’jae Johnson has been a pivotal player for the Tigers. Her freshman year culminated in a national championship, setting a high standard for her collegiate career. In the subsequent season, Johnson’s performance remained stellar, earning her first-team All-SEC honors and third-team All-American recognition. Her consistent excellence has solidified her status as one of the premier guards in women’s college basketball.New York Post
Decision to Return for Senior Year
In April 2025, Johnson announced her decision to forgo the WNBA Draft and return to LSU for her senior year. This choice surprised many, given her impressive collegiate achievements and potential at the professional level. Factors influencing her decision include the anticipated renegotiation of the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement, which may lead to more favorable salary structures for incoming players. Additionally, Johnson’s significant NIL earnings, reportedly around $1.5 million, provide financial stability that complements her athletic pursuits. Swish Appeal+2The US Sun+2New York Post+2New York PostNews Minimalist
Potential Transfer and Team Dynamics
While Johnson’s return to LSU is confirmed, speculation about a possible transfer has emerged. Key teammates, including Sa’Myah Smith and Last-Tear Poa, are also exploring transfer options, creating uncertainty about the team’s composition for the upcoming season. However, Johnson’s strong relationship with head coach Kim Mulkey and her leadership role within the team suggest a continued commitment to LSU. New York PostSwish Appeal+1New York Post+1
Innovative NIL Partnerships
Johnson’s influence extends beyond the basketball court through her strategic NIL engagements. In December 2024, she became the second college athlete to sign an NIL deal with Unrivaled, a professional women’s 3-on-3 basketball league founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. This partnership includes an equity stake in the league, highlighting Johnson’s entrepreneurial spirit and vision for the future of women’s basketball. AfroTech+2SI+2Sporting News+2Sporting News
Community Engagement and Social Impact
Demonstrating a strong commitment to social responsibility, Johnson partnered with Experian in March 2025 to assist in clearing $5 million in debt for 5,000 Louisiana families. This initiative aims to promote financial literacy and empower communities, reflecting Johnson’s belief in the importance of financial education and support. AfroTech
Musical Pursuits and Artistic Expression
Beyond athletics, Johnson is an accomplished rapper signed to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. In February 2025, she released her new album, “RnB 4,” which delves into themes of love and heartbreak. Her dual careers in sports and music exemplify her versatility and dedication to artistic expression. New York Post+2News Minimalist+2SI+2
Looking Ahead
Flau’jae Johnson’s recent decisions underscore a multifaceted approach to her career and personal growth. Her return to LSU for her senior year provides an opportunity to further cement her legacy in collegiate basketball. Simultaneously, her strategic NIL partnerships, community initiatives, and musical endeavors position her as a trailblazer for future generations of female athletes. As she navigates these opportunities, Johnson continues to inspire and influence both the sports and entertainment industries.
