Mar 19 • 01:36 UTC 🇺🇸 USA Fox News

LSU star Flau’jae Johnson carries bearded dragon into final NCAA Tournament run of college career

LSU star Flau’jae Johnson concludes her collegiate basketball career in the NCAA Tournament while honoring her beloved pet bearded dragon, Champ.

Flau’jae Johnson has made her mark not only through her impressive performance on the basketball court but also by maintaining her commitment to LSU throughout her college career. While many athletes today are influenced by the transfer-oriented culture in college sports, Johnson has stayed true to her roots at LSU since she first arrived over four years ago. Her deep connection to the university is highlighted by her personal tribute to her late bearded dragon, Four, whom she buried on the Baton Rouge campus, a sentimental gesture that underscores her bond with the school.

As Johnson prepares to play her final game for the Tigers, she does so against 15th-seeded Jacksonville in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. With her career at LSU coming to an end, her other bearded dragon, Champ, will metaphorically accompany her on this significant day. Johnson's love for her pets serves as a heartwarming backdrop to her athletic journey, illustrating how her life off the court has intertwined with her identity as an athlete.

Moreover, Johnson's story highlights the broader narrative of college athletics, where student-athletes navigate the evolving landscape shaped by NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) regulations and the pressures of transfer culture. Despite these challenges, Johnson's steadfast dedication to her team and school presents a refreshing counter-narrative in today's college sports environment, showcasing the values of loyalty and community engagement that resonate beyond just athletics.

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