Women’s college basketball star and rapper Flau’jae Johnson has long added philanthropy to her portfolio of athletic and musical accomplishments.
The 21-year-old shooting guard for the Louisiana State University Tigers has partnered with credit agency Experian to help erase $5 million in debt for 5,000 Louisiana families.
There is a synergy with Experian’s selection of Johnson, who happens to be a junior business major. She also is one of the best women basketball players in the nation — in addition to being a rising rap raven.
Flau’jae Johnson spearheads campaign to erase familial debt
“You know what’s bigger than basketball? Financial empowerment,” Johnson said in a new commercial. “Finances are tough, and Experian is helping the next generation pursue their dreams. That’s why I’m excited to announce Experian is wiping out 5 million [dollars] of debt for families in Louisiana. … Money isn’t everything, but you need it to live a good life. The Experian app can help you save time and money, build your credit and help you gain more knowledge in finances.”
In the press release obtained by Complex, Johnson also said, “It’s hard to create a winning financial game plan when you are blocked by debt. I am excited to partner with Experian to empower families in the state and across the country so they can become financial champions of their future.”
Louisiana is one of the poorest states in the country
Experian picked Louisiana, which has one of the highest poverty rates in the country, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
“Unmanageable debt prevents consumers from achieving their goals,” added Experian Consumer Services president Dacy Yee. “We hope this debt relief and access to Experian tools will help beneficiaries in Louisiana move toward a healthier financial future.”
Flau’jae Johnson and LSU vie for another title
The announcement was made on the eve of March Madness, the annual basketball tournament. Johnson is looking to win a second championship in three years as LSU’s leading scorer. She is averaging 19 points, 6 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game, good enough for a spot on the All-SEC first team.
Johnson, who turns 22 in November and is therefore eligible for the 2025 WNBA Draft, has been coy about whether she plans to stay in school and finish her degree or go pro. Changing paradigms in collegiate athletics spurred by lucrative NIL deals may incentivize Johnson to stay in school another year.
Will Flau’jae Johson turn pro?
On her podcast, “Best of Both Worlds with Flau’jae,” Johnson broached the topic of entering the WNBA Draft.
“After heavy consideration and just talking with my team, my family, and everybody just involved in my athletic career, I want to let y’all know that I will be … I’m just playing,” she said laughing.
“If you don’t know, I am eligible for the [WNBA] Draft this year. So, I’m kind of just letting God guide me. Whenever I feel that push or [feel that] it’s time, then it’s time … But nah, I really don’t know. I’m just hooping right now.”
