The LSU Tigers fell short against the Ole Miss Rebels in their final game of the regular season as they missed their guard, Flau’jae Johnson, in this key matchup. The guard has been a steady force for the Tigers, averaging 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. Now with an injury looming over her, LSU finds itself in deep crisis.

The Tigers have been performing well this season, ranking No. 3 in the SEC; the major credit for this goes to Flau’jae Johnson. Heading into Louisiana, LSU seemed the stronger team, at least on paper. The absence of Johnson resulted in a major blow for the team. the result? LSU lost to Ole Miss (77-85), which put down the curtains for the regular season. Now with March Madness in sight, concerns for LSU are at an all-time high with the main question standing, what happened to Flau’jae Johnson?

Flau’jae Johnson’s status uncertain ahead of SEC Tournament

Johnson first showed up on the injury report two weeks ago as LSU geared up for its matchup with Texas. The game resulted in a defeat for the Tigers (65-58); however, despite lingering injuries, Flau’jae’s performance was top-notch, contributing 16 points. Despite playing through it, LSU is being cautious, keeping the bigger picture in mind.

Today’s match-up against the Ole Miss Rebels was crucial, and there were questions over Flau’jae’s health, as Reed Darcey stated on X that the guard was spotted with a boot strapped on her right foot, raising questions about how serious her injury might be. “Flau’jae Johnson’s got a boot on that right foot. Will miss her second career game today,” The Game against the rebels was only the second game the junior had missed ever since joining the LSU three years ago.

For now, her injury has shut her out from playing in the SEC Tournament, and as per the LSU radio broadcasts, it has been confirmed that she’s been battling with shin inflammation. These kinds of injuries happen when there’s excessive stress on a particular muscle; while not usually serious, LSU’s decision to sit her out of the SEC Tournament might be the right one, as Kim Mulkey will be focusing on the bigger picture. March Madness.

With consecutive losses to both Alabama and Ole Miss, the team would want Flau’jae to be back on her feet as soon as possible, while LSU gears up for the conference tournament held at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. They earn a No. 3 seed, despite the upsets they’ve had recently.

LSU struggles without Junior Guard

LSU was already a handicap before the match even started with the absence of Flau’jae Johnson on the court. Her absence was quite noticeable as Ole Miss made an upset. The Tigers we’re in a commanding position heading into the third quarter leading by a margin of 15 points. However, with turnovers allowed the dynamic of the game shifted.

LSU allowed, the Rebels to score 27 points off turnovers throughout the game. With Johnson’s presence needed more than ever, Ole Miss snuck through the paint in her absence and scored 38 points, which is more than their average, of 34 per game.

Aneesah Morrow was the one who gave a fight to the rebels as she finished with 28 points and 12 rebounds recording her 100th career double-double, joining Oklahoma’s Courtney Paris as both become the only two players with this achievement.

Sophomore Guard Mikaylah Williams finished strong as well with 25 points and 5 assists to her name. With the SEC tournament fast approaching all eyes will be on these players to do the work for Kim Mulkey in Flau’jae’s absence, as with March Madness drawing in the guard would be needed in good shape to deliver when it matters the most.