LSU star Flau’jae Johnson’s mom opened up about an emotional moment during her daughter’s freshman year. Kia Brooks shared how coach Kim Mulkey’s tough-love approach initially left her in tears but ultimately proved transformative.
What Did Kia Brooks Say About Kim Mulkey?
Brooks revealed the emotional journey in an Instagram post following LSU’s welcome-back event. The “momager” recalled a conversation with Mulkey before Johnson’s freshman year when the Hall of Fame coach made a promise.
“A conversation I had with a wonderful little woman before she started her freshman year stuck with me, she promised to take care of my baby and help her grow into a woman before she leaves college. And boy, did she deliver!”
Brooks explained that Mulkey’s “molding process” initially made Johnson homesick. The situation tested Brooks as a parent, leaving her emotional while supporting her daughter through the transition.
“When Flau’jae got home sick that first year because kim started her molding process, I was a bit teary eyed on the other side of that phone line. Seeing my only biological daughter go through the change’s, but I knew it was for the best, bad as I wanted to get a truck and come pack my baby up only a month in.”
Mulkey advised Brooks to trust the process. Four years later, Brooks credits the coach’s guidance, honesty, and toughness for Johnson’s development both on and off the court.
How Has Mulkey Impacted Flau’jae Johnson’s Career?
Johnson arrived at LSU in 2022 and won a national championship as a freshman in 2023. She’s since earned First Team All-SEC honors and AP Third Team All-America recognition, averaging 18.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game last season.
Beyond basketball, Johnson has flourished as a rapper signed to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. She released her debut album “Best of Both Worlds” and hosts a podcast under the same name. Brooks manages Johnson’s NIL deals with brands including Puma, Powerade, and Mercedes-Benz.
Brooks acknowledged that critics who don’t know Mulkey personally may judge from the outside. But as someone inside the program, she expressed gratitude for the coach’s positive influence on her daughter.
“Thanks, Coach Mulkey, for being a positive influence and helping shape Flau’jae into the amazing young woman she’s becoming. Your dedication and care mean the world to our family.”
Johnson enters her senior season as one of college basketball’s premier guards. Brooks closed her message by hoping they “go out like we came in” with another championship. The Tigers open their season with Johnson leading a team picked to finish third in the SEC.