Prominent college football writer calls LSU football a playoff team in 2025
LSU’s women’s basketball program has a storied history of producing exceptional talent, and the 2024-2025 season is no exception. Two standout players, Flau’Jae Johnson and Aneesah Morrow, have been recognized for their outstanding performances by being named to the late-season top-20 watchlist for the prestigious John R. Wooden Award. citeturn0search0
Flau’Jae Johnson: A Dynamic Leader
Flau’Jae Johnson, a junior guard, has been instrumental in LSU’s success this season. Averaging 21.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, she has elevated her game significantly from the previous year. Her scoring has increased by 6.2 points per game, highlighting her development and adaptability on the court. Beyond her impressive statistics, Johnson’s leadership qualities have been evident. In a notable overtime victory against the Stanford Cardinal, despite fouling out, she remained actively engaged, motivating her teammates from the sidelines and providing crucial feedback, underscoring her role as the team’s emotional and strategic leader. citeturn0news8
Aneesah Morrow: Dominance in the Paint
Aneesah Morrow, a forward who transferred from DePaul, has seamlessly integrated into the LSU lineup, becoming a dominant force in the paint. She boasts 10 double-doubles in 12 games, underscoring her consistency and impact. In a significant matchup against then No. 20 NC State, Morrow delivered an outstanding performance with 20 points and 15 rebounds, showcasing her ability to excel against top-tier competition. Her versatility is evident as she not only battles in the post but also displays a reliable mid-range shot, making her a multifaceted threat on offense. Currently, Morrow is shooting a career-high 51.9% from the field and has increased her scoring output compared to her tenure at DePaul. citeturn0news8
The John R. Wooden Award: A Legacy of Excellence
The John R. Wooden Award is one of the most esteemed honors in college basketball, bestowed annually upon the nation’s most outstanding player. Established in 1976, the award has a rich history of recognizing basketball excellence. Past recipients include legends such as Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan, Kevin Durant, Candace Parker, Maya Moore, and Breanna Stewart. In recent years, Caitlin Clark of the University of Iowa has been a standout, securing the award in both 2023 and 2024. citeturn0search1
LSU’s Legacy with the Wooden Award
LSU has a proud history with the Wooden Award. Seimone Augustus, one of the program’s most celebrated players, won the award consecutively in 2005 and 2006. During her collegiate career, Augustus led the Lady Tigers to three straight Final Four appearances and was recognized as a two-time All-American. Her contributions to LSU basketball were further immortalized when her jersey number (33) was retired, making her the first female athlete in school history to receive such an honor. In January 2023, Augustus became the first female athlete at LSU to have a statue erected in her honor on campus, cementing her legacy within the university’s storied athletic history.
The Path Forward
As the season progresses, both Johnson and Morrow will play pivotal roles in LSU’s pursuit of excellence. Their inclusion on the Wooden Award watchlist not only highlights their individual talents but also underscores the strength and prominence of LSU’s women’s basketball program on the national stage. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how these standout athletes continue to perform as they lead the Lady Tigers through the remainder of the season and into postseason play.
In conclusion, the recognition of Flau’Jae Johnson and Aneesah Morrow on the Wooden Award late-season watchlist is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and exceptional skill. Their performances have not only elevated their personal profiles but have also brought significant acclaim to LSU’s basketball program, continuing a legacy of excellence that the university proudly upholds.
