The Las Vegas Aces’ loss to the New York Liberty was heartbreaking, especially for a die-hard fan like Flau’jae Johnson. Now as the Liberty prepares to face off against the Minnesota Lynx, Johnson has revealed her pick for the Finals—while playfully taking a dig at her friend and peer, Paige Bueckers.

Johnson began by expressing her admiration for Alicia Keys, whom she spotted in the Liberty locker room. “I love Alicia Keys—she’s one of the ones,” she said, adding with a chuckle, “But no, I won’t be making it into a game. See, I’m not like Paige Bueckers. I can’t be in and out like that, you know what I’m saying? I gotta be at school, I gotta be at class.”

While this remark might sound like a jibe it was also a light-hearted nod to Paige’s ability to juggle her busy schedule, which includes modeling and collaborations with brands like Nike, Gatorade, Bose, and Chegg, all while being a constant presence at games.

Johnson went on to also remark about the challenges of balancing her own packed schedule, which includes her music career and academics. “I already do music, so I gotta be on this grind. Coach Mo would be looking at me crazy, so I gotta stay locked in. I think Paige got a jet, I ain’t gonna lie. Paige gonna be at one of the games—I’ll tell you that. Connecticut is close to New York, so I know she’s gonna catch one of those games.” Flau’jae stated in her podcast.

However, there’s no denying that the UConn Husky will be rooting for her hometown team- the Minnesota Lynx. But the choice is still not that easy between the two powerhouses in the WNBA.

Divided Loyalties and Expectations for the Finals

While expressing her disappointment in not being able to be present for the Finals, Johnson acknowledged her divided loyalties. “I’m excited to see how the New York Liberty are going to play. You know, my coach, Simone Augustus, cheers for the Lynx, so I’mma go for the Liberty just to make her mad,” she joked. “But I ain’t gonna lie—I like the Lynx. Kier (Kierstan Bell) is just too smooth. Her game is textbook, and she’s really leading the Lynx right now.”

The LSU Tigers Guard also went on to emphasize her expectation for a competitive series. “The Lynx have shooters that space the floor, and they move really well without the ball. I think this is going to be a good challenge for the Liberty. I’mma go for the Liberty like I said, just because of Coach Mo, but I think this is going to be a good one.” While her support for the Liberty may partly stem from her need to tease her coach, it also reflects her appreciation for how decisively the Liberty defeated the Aces, her favorite team, this season.

In fact, although her beloved Aces didn’t make the Finals, Johnson remains excited about the series, especially with stars like Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu on the Liberty side. “Phee (Napheesa Collier) is always going to do what she does, but Brianna and Sabrina—that’s a tough duo to beat. I ain’t gonna lie, it’s a tough duo to beat,” she concluded.

However, the Lynx have already gotten the better of New York in their home arena. With the Liberty and Lynx set to clash again, Johnson’s witty insights showcase her deep love for the game—even if she won’t be courtside like Bueckers. And certainly, New York has everything in their roster and will to take their first World Champion ring and prove Flau’jae’s words correct.