Injury Updates for LSU Women’s Basketball: Aneesah Morrow and Flau’Jae Johnson
LSU Women’s Basketball has had a strong season, with players like Aneesah Morrow and Flau’Jae Johnson becoming pivotal figures in the team’s success. However, as the 2025 NCAA Tournament approaches, both players have faced injury concerns that have added a layer of uncertainty to LSU’s title aspirations. Injuries in basketball, particularly among key players, can dramatically impact a team’s performance. Both Morrow and Johnson have been dealing with various injuries recently, which have raised questions about their readiness for the big stage. As the NCAA Tournament approaches, LSU fans and analysts alike are keenly watching these updates. This article provides an in-depth look at the current injury situations of both players, the potential impact on LSU’s NCAA run, and the team’s expectations for March Madness.
Aneesah Morrow’s Injury Update
The Injury
Aneesah Morrow, one of LSU’s star players and one of the top contenders for national awards, suffered a significant injury during the SEC Tournament semifinal against Texas. Morrow sustained a mid-foot sprain, which was especially concerning as it came after she had previously aggravated an older injury. Morrow, known for her dominant presence both offensively and defensively, was a critical factor in LSU’s success this season. Her ability to score and grab rebounds has made her a double-double machine, and the team’s chances of success in the NCAA Tournament will depend heavily on her health.
Morrow’s mid-foot sprain isn’t a small injury. A sprain of this nature can cause a lot of pain and make movement difficult, particularly for someone who plays the type of minutes and intense style Morrow does. Despite this, head coach Kim Mulkey expressed optimism following the injury. Mulkey, who has seen her fair share of injury setbacks over her long coaching career, was confident in Morrow’s recovery.
Recovery and Outlook for March Madness
Following the injury, LSU fans were left wondering how long Morrow would be sidelined. However, Mulkey quickly provided reassurance. In a statement to the media, Mulkey confirmed that Morrow would be “good to go” for the NCAA Tournament. The coach acknowledged that Morrow was still wearing a boot, which was a part of the recovery process. “I think Morrow and Johnson are in a boot – I don’t know why they’re still in it. But I guess they just keep them in it,” Mulkey said.
This comment from Mulkey suggested that while Morrow is recovering, the boot is likely a precautionary measure to prevent further stress on her foot during the healing process. Morrow herself was reported as being in good spirits and was seen participating in practice without showing any signs of major setbacks. The coaching staff is confident that Morrow will be ready to go when LSU steps onto the court for the NCAA Tournament.
For LSU, Morrow’s return is pivotal. Without her, the team would lose a significant portion of their offensive and defensive power. Her ability to score inside and out, her leadership on the floor, and her rebounding prowess are all crucial for LSU’s success. If Morrow can return to full strength, LSU’s chances of making a deep run in the tournament increase exponentially.
Flau’Jae Johnson’s Injury Update
The Injury
Flau’Jae Johnson, another key player for LSU, has also been dealing with an injury concern. Johnson, known for her scoring ability and strong defensive play, missed the SEC Tournament due to a case of shin inflammation. Shin injuries, particularly inflammation, can be quite painful and challenging to recover from. For a player like Johnson, who relies on her speed and agility, shin inflammation is a serious concern, as it can affect her ability to run, cut, and jump effectively.
Johnson’s absence from the SEC Tournament left a noticeable gap in LSU’s lineup. Her perimeter shooting, in particular, is a valuable asset for the Tigers, as it stretches the defense and opens up lanes for her teammates. Additionally, Johnson’s tenacious defense helps to set the tone for LSU, and her leadership on and off the court is irreplaceable.
Recovery and Outlook for March Madness
Despite missing the SEC Tournament, LSU fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that Johnson’s injury is expected to be short-term. Kim Mulkey confirmed that Johnson would be back in time for the NCAA Tournament. In an interview, Mulkey assured the public that Johnson’s injury was not as severe as initially feared. “Flau’jae (Johnson) will be back. Everything is good,” Mulkey said. These words were a relief to the LSU faithful, who were worried that Johnson’s absence might be more prolonged.
Johnson has been working with LSU’s medical team to manage the inflammation in her shins and has been doing everything possible to ensure she is ready for the tournament. As of now, she is expected to rejoin the team fully for NCAA play, though it remains to be seen if she will be fully recovered or if she will need to play through some discomfort. Nevertheless, Johnson is a tough competitor, and her mental toughness could allow her to play effectively despite any lingering soreness.
Johnson’s return will significantly boost LSU’s chances in March Madness. Her scoring ability and defensive prowess are both essential for the team. Additionally, her versatility allows LSU to play different styles of basketball, depending on the matchup. Having Johnson back on the court for LSU will certainly make them a more dangerous team in the tournament.
Impact on LSU’s Tournament Run
With the injuries to both Morrow and Johnson, LSU’s potential NCAA Tournament run could be in jeopardy. However, the good news is that both players are expected to return in time for the big tournament, and LSU’s overall team depth could help mitigate the effects of their injuries. Let’s take a closer look at the broader implications of their injuries and what LSU needs to do to make a successful tournament run.
Depth and Leadership
One of the strengths of LSU’s roster this season has been its depth. Players like Alexis Morris and Jasmine Carson have stepped up when needed, and there are plenty of role players who can contribute on both ends of the floor. While Morrow and Johnson are irreplaceable to an extent, LSU has the talent to compensate for their absences in the short term.
However, the leadership of Morrow and Johnson is something that is not easily replaced. Both players are key leaders on the court, and their absence leaves a void in terms of the team’s emotional energy and ability to execute under pressure. LSU’s other players will need to step up and fill this leadership gap, particularly in critical moments during the tournament.
Key Matchups in the NCAA Tournament
If both Morrow and Johnson are healthy and ready to play, LSU will have a good chance of making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. However, there are several potential challenges ahead for the Tigers. Teams like South Carolina, Stanford, and UConn are also highly ranked and have formidable rosters. LSU will need both Morrow and Johnson to be at their best to match up with these teams. Their offensive firepower, defensive tenacity, and leadership will be critical in LSU’s ability to overcome these top teams and advance deep into the tournament.
As the LSU Women’s Basketball team prepares for the 2025 NCAA Tournament, all eyes are on Aneesah Morrow and Flau’Jae Johnson and their ability to return from injury. Morrow’s mid-foot sprain and Johnson’s shin inflammation have raised questions about their availability and effectiveness in the tournament, but the latest updates suggest both players are expected to be ready for March Madness. LSU’s championship hopes depend heavily on these two stars, and their return will undoubtedly strengthen the team’s chances of going all the way. With a talented roster, strong leadership, and the expected return of key players, LSU remains a top contender for the NCAA title. The Tigers’ path to success will hinge on the health and performance of Morrow and Johnson, but if they are at full strength, LSU could very well find itself celebrating a national championship at the end of the tournament.