The commitment of Divine Bourrage, Bella Hines, ZaKiyah Johnson, and Grace Knox signifies the start of a promising era for LSU
Mulkey’s ability to attract high-level talent and her leadership in shaping a championship-caliber team have created a winning culture that LSU fans and players eagerly embrace.
With the potential for multiple championships in the coming years, LSU women’s basketball is set to become a dominant force in the NCAA, carrying forward a legacy of excellence that could inspire future generations of athletes.
Flau’jae Johnson’s stellar start to the 2024-25 season reflects her hard work, talent, and dedication to the game. As LSU continues its journey, Johnson’s contributions on both ends of the floor will be crucial.
Her chemistry with Mikaylah Williams and Aneesah Morrow has helped establish LSU as a dominant force, and her leadership is invaluable to the team’s cohesion and success. Johnson’s journey is one to watch, as she’s not only helping her team but also inspiring countless fans along the way.
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Bella Hines: Kim Mulkey Lands Four 5-Star Recruits for 2025-26 Season
The LSU Tigers women’s basketball program, led by head coach Kim Mulkey, is once again at the center of college basketball buzz.1
Mulkey has secured commitments from four five-star recruits for the 2025-26 season, building on the Tigers’ recent championship success and reinforcing their position as a powerhouse in the NCAA.
Among those excited by the news is LSU guard and recording artist Flau’jae Johnson, who celebrated the new additions on social media, marking LSU’s recruitment success with pride.
Building a Dynasty:
Since her arrival at LSU, Kim Mulkey has made waves, transforming the Tigers into one of the most formidable teams in women’s college basketball. With this new class of top-tier talent, Mulkey is shaping LSU into a dynasty.
For the second time in three years, LSU has secured the No. 1 recruiting class, this time bringing in Divine Bourrage, Bella Hines, ZaKiyah Johnson, and Grace Knox—each a five-star recruit with a remarkable high school record.
Their addition highlights Mulkey’s effective recruitment strategy, her deep network within the high school basketball community, and her reputation for player development.
Thankful to have received an invite to the @Wootten_Camp !! Can’t wait to attend!! #Wootten150 pic.twitter.com/3VyT8gfzni
— Bella🤍 (@SaucyBella2) August 25, 2024
Flau’jae Johnson: A Player’s Perspective on LSU’s New Talent
Flau’jae Johnson, a standout guard for LSU and a hip-hop artist, was thrilled by the announcement of LSU’s new recruits. Her enthusiasm reflects the pride and optimism that the Tigers feel heading into the upcoming seasons.
Johnson’s endorsement, “#1 recruiting class 🐯,” captures the excitement of having the top-rated talent joining LSU.
As someone who balances athletic and musical careers, Johnson’s passion adds a unique energy to the team and connects her with fans beyond the basketball court.
Divine Bourrage: Iowa’s Gatorade Player of the Year Brings Versatility to LSU
Standing six feet tall, Divine Bourrage is a versatile guard from Davenport, Iowa, and was named the Gatorade Player of the Year in her state.
Known for her exceptional playmaking and scoring abilities, Bourrage is a standout talent who averaged 19.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 3.0 steals per game during her high school career.
Her skill set not only bolsters LSU’s backcourt but also adds defensive prowess and strong rebounding capabilities.
Bourrage’s well-rounded game style is likely to thrive under Mulkey’s coaching, which focuses on both offensive and defensive development.
Bella Hines: New Mexico’s Record-Setting Guard
Bella Hines, a 5-foot-10 guard from New Mexico, arrives at LSU with a decorated high school career, earning the title of New Mexico’s Player of the Year twice and surpassing the 2,000-point milestone in her junior season alone.
Hines averaged an astounding 32.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists per game at Eldorado High School, showcasing her scoring ability and dominance on the court.
Her experience as a high-volume scorer will bring significant offensive firepower to the Tigers, giving Mulkey a reliable shooting option who can impact games at any moment.
ZaKiyah Johnson: Kentucky’s Decorated Star and International Gold Medalist
ZaKiyah Johnson, an 18.9 points-per-game scorer, joins LSU with a highly impressive resume.
Hailing from Kentucky, Johnson has won three KHSAA state championships and has been named Kentucky’s Gatorade Player of the Year three times.
Her leadership on the court and winning mentality make her an invaluable asset for the Tigers. Johnson’s experience extends to the international stage, where she represented the United States and won a gold medal at the U18 FIBA Women’s AmeriCup.
Johnson’s combination of scoring, rebounding, and championship experience will be instrumental in pushing LSU to greater heights.
Grace Knox: A Championship Forward with Double-Double Prowess
Grace Knox, a 6-foot-3 forward from Etiwanda High School in Los Angeles, is a force in the paint.
Averaging 17.2 points and 11.9 rebounds per game, Knox has proven herself as a dominant presence who can control the boards and contribute to the scoring effort.
Her high school accolades include leading her team to a national championship and the California Open Division So-Cal Region State Championship.
With her physicality and rebounding strength, Knox brings a strong interior presence that will complement LSU’s guard-heavy lineup, allowing the team to maintain balance on both ends of the court.
LSU’s Recruiting Success: A Legacy in the Making
Securing a class of four five-star recruits has placed LSU in a unique position for sustained success.
Each of these athletes brings a distinct skill set to the team, allowing Mulkey to develop versatile game plans that can adapt to any opponent.
The Tigers’ commitment to excellence and championship aspirations are evident in their recruiting efforts, aiming to keep LSU at the top of the NCAA women’s basketball landscape.
Bella Hines: National Championship Aspirations
With LSU’s 2023 national championship fresh in the minds of fans, the arrival of this elite recruiting class adds fuel to the speculation that LSU may be on the cusp of another title run.
Each of these new recruits has a championship pedigree or accolades that demonstrate a commitment to winning, aligning with Mulkey’s goal of building a lasting legacy at LSU.
If the current trend of recruitment success continues, LSU could very well become a dominant force in women’s college basketball for years to come.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Mulkey and the Tigers?
While the addition of these recruits has undoubtedly strengthened LSU’s future roster, the Tigers will still face fierce competition from traditional powerhouses like South Carolina, Stanford, and Connecticut.
Mulkey’s coaching philosophy, which emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and intensity, will play a critical role in preparing the team for what lies ahead.
Her adaptability and strategic insights make her a formidable coach who can harness the talents of her players to their fullest potential.
Kim Mulkey’s approach to coaching emphasizes both skill development and mental toughness. Her track record with young talent demonstrates her ability to bring out the best in her players, helping them transition smoothly from high school to college-level competition.
Under Mulkey’s guidance, recruits like Bourrage, Hines, Johnson, and Knox are expected to elevate their game and adapt quickly to the intensity of NCAA play.
The Impact on Women’s College Basketball: LSU’s Rising Influence
- LSU’s recruiting success is a reflection of the growing popularity and competitiveness of women’s college basketball.
- As more young athletes see the potential for growth and national exposure at LSU, the Tigers are establishing themselves as a preferred destination for elite recruits.
- The influence of LSU’s program under Mulkey could inspire other schools to elevate their recruiting efforts, ultimately raising the level of play across women’s college basketball.
- Fans of LSU women’s basketball have every reason to be excited. With a national championship already under their belt and another top-ranked recruiting class on the way, the Tigers are generating anticipation for what could be a historic run in women’s basketball.
- Flau’jae Johnson’s endorsement on social media reflects the shared excitement and optimism among LSU players and supporters, setting the stage for another thrilling chapter in LSU basketball history.
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Bella Hines: Exceptional Scoring Efficiency
Flau’jae Johnson has displayed remarkable efficiency in her scoring this season. Shooting a high 58.7% from the field and an impressive 41.7% from beyond the arc, she’s setting a new standard for consistency.
Johnson’s shooting efficiency is one of the highest among college guards, demonstrating her ability to create and convert scoring opportunities.
Her shooting form and composure under pressure make her a consistent threat, opening up the court for her teammates as well.
Building Chemistry with Mikaylah Williams and Aneesah Morrow
One of the key aspects of Johnson’s early-season success is her chemistry with fellow LSU stars Mikaylah Williams and Aneesah Morrow.
Together, this trio has been instrumental in LSU’s commanding start, with the Lady Tigers winning their first three games by an average margin of 61 points.
Johnson’s ability to read the game and create opportunities for her teammates has strengthened LSU’s offensive flow, making them a formidable force.
The connection between these players is evident in their on-court interactions, seamless passing, and synchronized movement, setting them up as one of the most potent trios in women’s college basketball.
Standout Performance Against Charleston Southern
Johnson’s recent game against Charleston Southern showcased her versatility and resilience. In 30 minutes of play, she tallied 18 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished out three assists, helping LSU secure another dominant victory.
This performance highlighted Johnson’s growth not only as a scorer but as a well-rounded player who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Her ability to dominate the boards, especially for a guard, makes her a valuable asset in both offensive and defensive scenarios, keeping LSU’s tempo high and forcing opponents to adjust.
Bella Hines: Off-the-Court Influence
Flau’jae Johnson’s influence extends beyond her on-court performance.
Known for her rap career and unique personality, she has embraced her role as a positive influence for young fans, promoting confidence and self-expression.
Johnson’s authenticity and passion for both basketball and music inspire others to pursue multiple interests and break the mold.
Her visibility as a student-athlete with diverse talents makes her a relatable role model, particularly for aspiring young women balancing multiple passions.
Preparing for the Season Ahead: Key Challenges and Goals
Despite her outstanding start, Johnson is focused on continuous improvement. She has expressed her commitment to enhancing her defensive skills and further developing her playmaking abilities.
LSU’s upcoming games, including their matchup against Murray State, will present unique challenges as opponents adjust to LSU’s strengths.
Johnson’s ability to adapt her play and contribute in evolving ways will be crucial for LSU as they aim to maintain their high ranking and secure a championship bid.
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Johnson’s Leadership Role in the Team
As a third-year guard, Johnson has naturally taken on more of a leadership role this season. Her experience and maturity have made her a mentor to younger players, fostering a cohesive team environment.
Johnson’s leadership is evident in her ability to encourage and uplift her teammates during challenging moments.
She leads by example with her work ethic, demonstrating what it takes to succeed at the collegiate level. Johnson’s guidance has been particularly impactful for incoming players, helping to integrate them into LSU’s system.
Upcoming Matchup Against Murray State: Expectations and Strategy
LSU’s next game against Murray State is a highly anticipated one, as the Lady Tigers aim to extend their winning streak. Johnson’s performance will likely be instrumental as LSU continues its pursuit of an undefeated season.
Fans and analysts expect her to bring her trademark energy and versatility, adapting to the unique strengths and weaknesses of the Murray State squad.
The game offers an opportunity for Johnson to showcase her leadership and further solidify her place as one of the team’s primary scoring options.
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