“Flau’jae is one of the most dynamic, creative and explosive players in this draft and we’re excited to get another first round pick to select her,” said Talisa Rhea, the General Manager of the Golden State Valkyries, following the selection of Flau’jae Johnson with the No. 8 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft.
Shortly after the draft, Johnson was traded to the Seattle Storm in exchange for the draft rights to Marta Suarez and a second-round pick in 2028. Rhea expressed surprise at Johnson’s availability, stating, “We didn’t think that [Johnson] would be available at that point.” This unexpected turn of events highlights Johnson’s potential impact on the league.
During her senior season at LSU, Johnson averaged 14.2 points and 4.2 rebounds per game, showcasing her scoring ability with a field goal percentage of 46.5%. Her college career was marked by significant achievements, including helping LSU secure an NCAA Championship during her freshman year in the 2022-23 season.
Johnson’s impressive statistics include scoring double digits in 27 games during her senior year, with nine of those games featuring 20 or more points. Additionally, she became the sixth player in LSU history to surpass 2,000 career points, solidifying her legacy at the university.
Recognized for her talent, Johnson was named First-Team All-SEC and Third-Team All-American in 2026, and she was also a McDonald’s All-American in 2022. Her accolades reflect her hard work and dedication throughout her four years at LSU, where she never missed an NCAA Tournament.
As the WNBA prepares for the upcoming season, Johnson’s transition to the Seattle Storm will be closely watched. Ohemaa Nyanin, the Valkyries’ head coach, praised Marta Suarez, saying, “Marta is fierce. She’s fearless,” indicating the potential strength of the trade for both teams.
With Johnson now in Seattle, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how her skills will translate to the professional level. The Storm’s roster will benefit from her dynamic playing style, and the team hopes to leverage her talents to make a significant impact in the league.
As the season approaches, the excitement surrounding Flau’jae Johnson’s career in the WNBA continues to build, with many anticipating her contributions to the Seattle Storm. Details remain unconfirmed regarding her immediate role on the team, but her track record suggests she will be a key player to watch.