Flau’jae Johnson Prepares for WNBA After LSU Career Ends Abruptly

Bassyonni

Published: April 13, 2026 9:09 PM ET

Flau’jae Johnson Prepares for WNBA After LSU Career Ends Abruptly

Flau’jae Johnson is navigating an exciting yet challenging transition following her recent conclusion at LSU. After a disappointing Sweet 16 loss to Duke, she quickly shifted her focus toward the WNBA draft.

Career Transition and Key Ceremony

Only a week into her preparation for the draft, Johnson received a significant honor—a key to the city of Baton Rouge. This ceremony took place just before the draft, highlighting her burgeoning career.

2026 WNBA Draft Prospects

The WNBA draft is scheduled for Monday at 6 p.m. in New York City, and Johnson is projected to be a first-round selection. ESPN’s latest projections indicate she may be picked fifth overall by the Chicago Sky, while The Athletic forecasts the Washington Mystics might choose her as the ninth pick.

Historical Achievements for LSU

If Johnson is selected within the first 15 picks, LSU will make history by producing first-round picks in three consecutive drafts. This accomplishment follows the selections of Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow, who were drafted seventh overall in previous years.

New Collective Bargaining Agreement Impact

Johnson opted to return for her senior season instead of entering last year’s draft. As a result, she will be among the first to benefit from the newly ratified collective bargaining agreement (CBA) in the league, which significantly raises rookie salaries.

Previous rookie salaries: Five-figure earnings.
New minimum salary: $270,000 annually.
CBA ratified: March 24, 2023.

Player Highlights and Performance Metrics

Flau’jae Johnson has showcased her prowess on the court throughout her college career. Despite some inconsistencies, she stands out as a three-level scorer with defensive skills.

Scoring Stats

Career-high 39% shooting from three-point range.
Average of 15.4 points per game over three years.
Improved performance in NCAA Tournament: 18.6 points per game at 54% shooting.

Only five players have outscored Johnson in LSU history, including notable WNBA first-round picks Seimone Augustus and Sylvia Fowles. Johnson is poised to become the 10th player from LSU to enter the WNBA draft.

Facing Challenges with Optimism

As she prepares for this next chapter, Johnson remains focused on the opportunity ahead. She expressed her excitement about the changes in the league, stating, “I’m ready to hear about the things they have on housing and traveling.”

Regardless of where she lands, Johnson is determined to prove herself. “I don’t have any expectations,” she said, adding, “I’m just like, wherever I go, I’m gonna kill.” This confidence will surely serve her well as she embarks on her professional journey in the WNBA.