Flau'jae Johnson's boyfriend, Chris Hilton Jr., shared a special message for the LSU star on his Instagram Story on Sunday. He posted a photo of Johnson on the court with a meaningful message for her written over the photo.
"NMW 💞♾️" he wrote, with Flau'jae responding with the same message, which means "no matter what."
Flau'jae Johnson went official with her boyfriend, a receiver for the LSU football team, over Christmas when she posted a series of snaps of the two of them in matching holiday pajamas with the caption "Santa listened."
Flau'jae Johnson and LSU suffer first loss of season to South Carolina
Flau’jae Johnson delivered a notable performance as LSU, which won the 2023 NCAA title, faced South Carolina, which won the national championship in 2022 and last season, in a hard-fought battle on Friday. In the end, No. 2 South Carolina secured a 66-56 victory, handing No. 5 LSU its first loss of the season.
LSU’s struggles weren’t entirely the result of South Carolina’s dominance. Internal challenges — 17 turnovers and 19 fouls — played a significant role in the Tigers’ downfall. South Carolina took full advantage, scoring 22 points off turnovers and converting 18 of 26 attempts at the foul line.
Flau’jae Johnson stood out with 13 points, shooting 6 of 18, and adding four rebounds. Aneesah Morrow led the Tigers with 15 points and 16 rebounds but fouled out in the final minute. Mikaylah Williams contributed 13 points and six rebounds, while Sa’Myah Smith grabbed seven boards.
Despite LSU’s relentless effort, the team couldn’t capitalize on second-chance opportunities, even with 28 offensive rebounds contributing to their 51 total boards.
After the game, LSU coach Kim Mulkey addressed the missed opportunities.
"We’re not doing anything when we get those offensive boards. You’ve got to do something with them," she said.
South Carolina’s depth became a deciding factor, especially in the second half. Joyce Edwards scored 10 of her 14 points after halftime, while the Gamecocks’ bench contributed 31 points overall. MiLaysia Fulwiley added eight points, including a perfect 4 of 4 from the free-throw line.
South Carolina’s dominance in the paint also stood out, recording 11 blocks. Sania Feagin led the effort with three blocks, adding 12 points and seven rebounds, while Chloe Kitts contributed seven points and seven rebounds.
Flau'jae Johnson and LSU (21-1, 6-1 Southeastern Conference) had a quick turnaround as the Tigers beat Texas A&M 64-51 on Sunday.
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