LSU's Flau'jae Johnson Stays Loyal to Coach Mulkey

The Tigers guard explains why she hasn't entered the transfer portal despite success elsewhere

Feb. 3, 2026 at 8:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a recent interview, LSU Tigers guard Flau'jae Johnson discussed her loyalty to head coach Kim Mulkey and the LSU women's basketball program. Despite opportunities to transfer, Johnson said she wants to leave a lasting legacy with the Tigers and continues to develop under Mulkey's tutelage.

Why it matters

Johnson's decision to stay at LSU highlights the growing trend of players entering the transfer portal, as well as the importance of player-coach relationships and building a program's culture. Her commitment to Mulkey and LSU is notable, especially after the team's 2023 national championship victory during Johnson's freshman year.

The details

Johnson, who is in her fourth and final year of collegiate basketball, explained that she loves Coach Mulkey and the LSU program, and wants to leave a lasting legacy. She noted that many players have come and gone, but she has remained loyal to the system and her development under Mulkey. Johnson jokingly compared the transfer portal to 'being single' and looking for a new relationship, but said that's not the path she has chosen.

  • Johnson is in her fourth and likely final year of collegiate basketball before potentially entering the 2026 WNBA Draft.
  • LSU won its first NCAA championship in program history during Johnson's freshman campaign in 2023.

The players

Flau'jae Johnson

A guard for the LSU Tigers women's basketball team who has spent all four years of her collegiate career with the program.

Kim Mulkey

The head coach of the LSU Tigers women's basketball team, who has coached Johnson throughout her college career.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Yeah. I love coach Kim. I love LSU, and I really want to leave a legacy. I feel like I played with a lot of great players. Many players that came in, many players have left, but I've been there the whole four years like I know the system. I know Coach Mulkey, and I know how much I've developed over the time. So for me, I don't know, I'm just loyal to the soil.”

— Flau'jae Johnson, LSU Tigers Guard (Heir Time Podcast)

What’s next

Johnson is expected to enter the 2026 WNBA Draft after completing her fourth and final season with the LSU Tigers.

The takeaway

Flau'jae Johnson's decision to remain loyal to Coach Mulkey and the LSU Tigers program, despite opportunities to transfer, demonstrates the value of strong player-coach relationships and building a winning culture. Her commitment to leaving a lasting legacy with the Tigers is a testament to the program's growth under Mulkey's leadership.