Importance Score: 35 / 100 🔵
LSU’s Flau’Jae Johnson Temporarily Halts Rap Career to Focus on NCAA Tournament
SPOKANE, Wash. – LSU standout guard Flau’Jae Johnson is temporarily putting her burgeoning rap career and podcast on hold as she concentrates on the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. Johnson’s sole focus is now leading the LSU Tigers to another national championship victory.
“My focus is entirely on winning the national championship,” Johnson stated. “Once we achieve that, I can return to my other pursuits.”
Off-Court Talents Still Visible During March Madness
While Johnson is prioritizing basketball, her off-court talents still feature prominently during March Madness. She is currently rapping in a Powerade advertisement campaign frequently aired during the tournament broadcasts.
Musical Background and Achievements
Johnson’s journey in music gained national recognition after she appeared on “America’s Got Talent” in 2018, where she reached the quarterfinals. Her debut album, “Best of Both Worlds,” was released last year, and she has also collaborated with rap icon Lil Wayne.
Johnson has stated that her music career is a tribute to her late father, the rapper Camoflauge.
“Best of Both Worlds” Podcast
Adding to her endeavors, Johnson hosts the podcast “Best of Both Worlds,” where she interviews prominent figures in basketball, such as JuJu Watkins (USC) and Paige Bueckers (UConn). The podcast covers a wide array of subjects, from basketball strategy to personal anecdotes.
Elite Eight Showdown Against UCLA
Johnson and the Tigers secured their place in the Elite Eight for the third straight year with an 80-73 victory over N.C. State. They are now set to face top-seeded UCLA on Sunday. Recalling last year’s NCAA Tournament matchup, UCLA head coach Cori Close vividly remembers Johnson’s impactful performance.
Coach Cori Close Praises Johnson’s Impact
In their previous tournament encounter, Bruins head coach Cori Close witnessed Johnson’s dominant play firsthand, where she recorded a double-double with 24 points and 12 rebounds, shooting 7-for-11 from the field.
Beyond Johnson’s on-court prowess, Coach Close also praised Johnson’s broader influence on women’s basketball. “She’s been tremendous for the game,” Close remarked. “I truly admire how she balances everything in her life, especially alongside her basketball talents. I strive to be a champion for growing the game, and I look to her. She’s doing an excellent job, and I commend her for that; our sport is enhanced by her presence.”
Embracing Pressure Situations
Johnson conveyed that pressure situations do not faze her, drawing a parallel to her time on “America’s Got Talent.” “I believe pressure either bursts pipes or creates diamonds, and I aspire to be a diamond,” Johnson stated prior to a reunion performance in 2023.