When Kim Mulkey, the LSU Hall of Fame coach, described one of her players as a joy to coach, that player, Flau’jae Johnson, couldn’t help but respond. The heartfelt exchange, sparked by Mulkey’s glowing praise in a Teen Vogue feature, offers a rare glimpse into the powerful and mutually appreciative bond that has become the heart of the Tigers’ program.
What Makes the Bond Between Flau’jae Johnson and Kim Mulkey So Special?
Flau’jae Johnson took to X with a touching message after seeing Kim Mulkey’s comments about her in Teen Vogue. In a tribute to her coach, the LSU guard made it clear the feeling was mutual.
“i love this lady with all of my heart, she has made me better in so many ways. i am forever grateful to have kim mulkey. i’m glad we chose each other,” Johnson wrote in her post.
Johnson’s post came in response to what Mulkey told Teen Vogue about coaching her star player. The veteran coach expressed pure enthusiasm when discussing Johnson, highlighting her infectious positivity.
“Everybody needs to have the pleasure of coaching a Flau’jae Johnson. She makes our life so joyful,” Mulkey told the publication.
Mulkey’s comments reveal just how much Johnson means to the program. She described Johnson as someone who keeps the team upbeat during practices and games and stays positive even when things get tough. Additionally, the experienced coach noted she has rarely encountered a player with such natural joy.
Their relationship traces back to when Johnson committed to play for Mulkey at LSU. As the first McDonald’s All-American to sign with the new coach, Johnson helped jump-start what would quickly become a national championship program.
How Did This Partnership Build a Championship Program?
Mulkey is fully aware of Johnson’s foundational impact on LSU basketball. Following the team’s Elite Eight loss this past season, the coach spoke directly about her star’s role in elevating the program.
“I’m forever indebted to Flau’jae Johnson,” Mulkey said.
A key factor that made LSU special during Johnson’s recruitment was Mulkey’s unwavering support for her music career. While most programs wanted her to choose between basketball and music, Mulkey embraced both of her talents. She established a simple rule: during the season, basketball receives Johnson’s full attention.
Under Mulkey’s intense coaching style, Johnson has thrived throughout her three seasons at LSU. As a junior, she posted career highs with 18.6 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. Her performance earned her First Team All-SEC and Third Team All-America honors while helping lead LSU to another Elite Eight appearance.
That on-court success is a direct result of Johnson buying into Mulkey’s demanding approach. Johnson herself admits that playing for Mulkey is tough, but she credits that toughness with preparing her for everything from USA Basketball camps to her upcoming WNBA draft decision.
Their partnership has charted Johnson’s growth from a freshman role player on LSU’s 2023 national championship team to an All-American leader. Now, she stands as the face of the program while Mulkey continues to build toward another title run.