Sun Mar 30 19:20:00 UTC 2025: ## LSU Guard Flau’Jae Johnson Ready for Elite Eight Despite Eye Injury

**SPOKANE, Wash.** – LSU guard Flau’Jae Johnson will play in Sunday’s Elite Eight game against UCLA after recovering from a double vision issue suffered in Friday’s Sweet Sixteen victory over NC State. Johnson collided with a Wolfpack player in the fourth quarter, experiencing temporary vision impairment. While she sat out the final five minutes of the game, the Tigers rallied to win 80-73 without her.

Despite a subpar shooting performance (1-for-8) and her fewest points since November, Johnson is confident and focused on the upcoming matchup. “I feel good,” she said Saturday, attributing the issue to an elbow to the eye. LSU coach Kim Mulkey expressed full confidence in Johnson’s ability to rebound from the setback, noting her All-American status and unwavering spirit. Johnson herself seemed to have already moved on, stating, “For real? I forgot about it,” when asked about her previous performance.

UCLA coach Cori Close acknowledged the threat Johnson poses, highlighting her prolific transition game. Close emphasized the importance of limiting Johnson’s opportunities in transition, where she has amassed 226 points this season, ranking sixth in Division I. The Bruins are well aware that facing a motivated Johnson after a less-than-stellar game could spell trouble. The Elite Eight clash promises to be a closely contested battle.

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