In a heart-stopping finish, LSU's women's basketball team bowed out of the NCAA Tournament with an 87-85 loss to Duke in the Sweet 16. This game marked the end of an era for the Tigers, as Flau'Jae Johnson played her final collegiate game, capped by a dramatic buzzer-beating three-pointer.
Head coach Kim Mulkey was full of praise for Johnson, highlighting her immense talent and unwavering dedication to the team. Johnson, who scored 13 points in her swan song against the Blue Devils, has been a cornerstone for LSU.
"She got a championship her freshman year," Mulkey reflected. "She was freshman of the year in the SEC.
She has two careers that she's doing every day of her life, wakes up at five o'clock. She spent four years at the same institution."
Johnson's journey at LSU is one for the books. As a four-year starter and the first McDonald's All-American signed by Mulkey in Baton Rouge, she leaves a legacy as one of the program's top scorers, averaging 14.6 points per game.
Mulkey added, "The list goes on and so much appreciation to her for being who she is. She has a joyous spirit about her and she helped us win many ballgames and she also won a championship."
Johnson's contributions to LSU go beyond the stats. Her spirit and determination have left a lasting impact on the program, and her presence will be missed both on and off the court.