LSU women’s basketball faces a challenging postseason as star player Flau’jae Johnson will not participate in the upcoming SEC Tournament due to a shin injury. Coach Kim Mulkey made the decision to rest Johnson, prioritizing her health in preparation for the NCAA Tournament.
Johnson’s absence is significant for the Tigers, who have struggled in recent outings, including a home loss to Ole Miss. The Tigers’ performance without her will be closely scrutinized, as the team aims to maintain its competitive edge. Mulkey’s decision was influenced by the need to protect Johnson from aggravating her injury, which has been a concern since before a previous game against Texas.
The rationale behind this calculated risk is clear: the Tigers are already positioned well for the NCAA Tournament, and losing Johnson in the SEC Tournament may not drastically alter their seeding. Mulkey emphasized that the goal is to ensure Johnson can contribute effectively when it matters most. This strategic approach is essential, especially considering the team’s recent form, which includes several losses.
In previous seasons, Mulkey has taken similar precautions, showcasing her understanding of the delicate balance between short-term gains and long-term success. As the Tigers prepare for the SEC Tournament, the focus will shift to how the remaining players can step up in Johnson’s absence. Stars like Aneesah Morrow and Mikaylah Williams will need to carry a heavier load, particularly in scoring and defense.
LSU Tigers Coach Kim Mulkey Explains Flau’Jae Johnson’s Injury
Just recently, Mulkey dropped an explanation behind Johnson’s injury. This can be seen in an article written by Reed Darcey for NOLA.com.
Johnson is battling shin inflammation, coach Kim Mulkey said on Sunday. LSU wants the pain from that injury to subside by the time the NCAA Tournament tips off, so it’s shutting her down until the games become do-or-die. That decision will give her three weeks to rest.
“I sat Flau’jae,” Mulkey said. “The doctor didn’t tell her she had to sit. The trainer didn’t tell her she had to sit. This started before the Texas game, and I encouraged her to sit then.”
The team is aware of the challenges they face, and players are stepping forward to fill the void left by Johnson. Williams, in particular, has recognized the need for a strong defensive presence, which Johnson typically provides. The upcoming games will test the depth and resilience of the Tigers as they navigate this difficult phase.
While Flau’jae Johnson’s injury poses a significant hurdle for LSU, the decision to rest her highlights a commitment to long-term success. As the team gears up for the SEC Tournament, all eyes will be on how they adapt without their star player.
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