$1.5 million NIL-valued Flau'jae Johnson drops 3-word reply to LSU coach’s praise

Flau'jae Johnson has risen the ranks as one of the best players in women's college basketball, while being a highly valued star with an NIL value of $1.5 million, per On3. Her growth has been recognized by one of LSU's assistant coaches.

Gary Redus II, who has been part of the Tigers' staff since the 2022-23 season, has recognized Johnson's growth from last year to now. She averaged 14.9 points the prior season, and she is scoring about 20 points so far this season.

"She's what real work looks like," Redus said in his Instagram story post about Johnson.

Johnson caught wind of his post, reacting with three clear words that showcases her mindset.

"Just getting started," Johnson replied.

Flau'jae Johnson reacts to social media post. (Instagram)

Flau'jae Johnson revealed her ideal lineup

Flau'jae Johnson understands the star-level talent that Paige Bueckers, JuJu Watkins and Hannah Hidalgo have. A starting lineup featuring those names would pose a strong threat for teams facing them.

However, Johnson went a different direction when it came to her ideal lineup. Instead of the aforementioned stars, she went with the starting five she is currently part of: the LSU Tigers.

"My starting five? Shoot. My team. I got the best starting five in the country. No cap," Johnson said.

This is a loyal decision for the star guard to make, especially with LSU off to a perfect start to the 2024-25 season. They possess a 20-0 overall record, including a 5-0 showing in conference play.

The Tigers are putting up 90.6 points on 48.9% shooting from the field and 33.2% from beyond the arc, blowing out opponents by a margin of 28.4 points per game. Their rebounding and defense are noted strengths, grabbing 48.1 rebounds while holding teams to shooting splits of 35.1% overall and 27.1% from downtown.

Flau'jae Johnson leads the way with 19.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game. Aneesah Morrow comes next with a double-double of 18.7 points and 14.2 rebounds, Mikaylah Williams puts up 16.4 points and 4.5 rebounds, while Kailyn Gilbert provides 11.2 points and 3.3 rebounds off the bench.

Johnson and the No. 5 Tigers now prepare for a big matchup against the No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks at the Colonial Life Arena on Friday at 5 p.m. ET.