Flau’jae Johnson couldn’t stop smiling after LSU’s 118-70 win at Georgia Southern. The senior guard from Savannah wasn’t just playing another early-season game, she was back home, surrounded by family, friends, and fans who watched her grow into one of college basketball’s brightest stars.
“It was beautiful,” Johnson told ESPN after the game. “I’m so thankful for my city for coming out. I felt no pressure, all I felt was love all day.”
Her words said it all. Johnson looked completely at ease on the floor, scoring 19 points while adding six assists and four rebounds in front of a crowd that treated her like royalty. Every jumper, every pass, every grin carried extra meaning on a night that blended basketball and homecoming pride.
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LSU’s depth makes early statement
The Tigers had no trouble handling Georgia Southern, shooting nearly 53 percent from the field and getting double-digit scoring from six players. MiLaysia Fulwiley matched Johnson’s 19 points, while freshman ZaKiyah Johnson added 17. Center Kate Koval dominated the paint with 12 points and 14 rebounds.
Fulwiley came off the bench and wasted no time getting involved, dropping nine quick points in the first quarter to spark LSU’s offense. By halftime, the Tigers had piled up 67 points, their highest-scoring half so far this season, thanks to a pair of explosive second-quarter runs.
Coach Kim Mulkey’s team also punished Georgia Southern on the glass, grabbing 31 offensive rebounds and converting them into 34 second-chance points. It was the kind of complete performance that reinforces why LSU remains among the favorites to make another deep NCAA Tournament run.
A homecoming worth waiting for
The road game was specifically scheduled so Johnson could play near her hometown before wrapping up her college career. The love from the crowd was obvious, and so was her gratitude.
“Coming back here, seeing familiar faces and feeling that energy, it just meant everything,” Johnson said.
Her performance mirrored her journey: confident, electric, and deeply connected to where it all started. The Tigers now head home to face Charlotte next, but for Johnson, this night in Georgia will be one she’ll never forget.
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