In the world of college basketball, securing a five-star recruit is like finding a unicorn—elusive, rare, and worth celebrating with confetti cannons. And for LSU, it’s a big day because the No. 12 player in the 2025 class, ZaKiyah Johnson, has decided to bring her game, glam, and “Angel Reese energy” straight to Baton Rouge. This news left LSU fans in a frenzy, but not without a proper Louisiana-style welcome from WNBA stars Angel Reese and Breanna Stewart.
In true 2024 fashion, the official welcome didn’t come through press releases or announcements but on Instagram, where Reese—an LSU legend and current Chicago Sky star—rolled out the warmest welcome on Johnson’s post with just the right amount of style and sparkle. “Congrats pretty girl,” Reese commented, adding, “The gworlsssss wit the edges and the lashes always do well in the BOOT! Welcomeeee.” If there’s a better way to christen a commitment, we’d like to see it.
Not one to be left out, Breanna Stewart, two-time WNBA MVP and resident emoji queen, jumped in with a three-smiling-face-with-devil-horns combo that’s half LSU pride and half “let’s make trouble.” For anyone wondering, purple is indeed an LSU color, and those emojis were the digital equivalent of a high-five across the court.
A Decision Steeped in Sass and Swagger
When Johnson announced her commitment to LSU during a ceremony back home at Sacred Heart Academy in Kentucky, she made it clear that LSU was about more than just basketball—though buckets will be part of the plan. “A lot of people say I give off the Angel Reese vibe,” Johnson explained with a grin. “I like the fashion, but that’s what LSU brings out. … It’s just a big stage, and I love the glam and all that. But we’re also going to get buckets, too, so I’m excited.”
With an average of 18.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game last season, Johnson’s numbers already put her on a national radar. And after leading Sacred Heart Academy to a third straight state championship, she’s more than earned her three consecutive Gatorade Kentucky Girls Basketball Player of the Year titles. So yes, there will be buckets—and plenty of them.
Angel Reese Energy in Baton Rouge
For LSU fans, Johnson’s decision echoes the excitement that followed Reese’s own arrival in Baton Rouge. Reese, who transferred to LSU from Maryland and led her team to an NCAA championship in 2023, has become a cultural icon for the program. Reese’s unapologetic style and success on the court have redefined the image of LSU women’s basketball, and Johnson seems ready to pick up where Reese left off, blending her own personality with that Reese-like “glam and grit” combo that’s become a staple for the Tigers.
But let’s be real: Johnson had her pick of schools, including in-state favorites Louisville and Kentucky. Yet, LSU’s allure—the big stage, the glam, and the chance to learn under celebrated coach Kim Mulkey—proved irresistible. Reese might’ve been an unofficial recruiter on this one, because nothing says “join us” quite like a public display of Instagram love from an LSU icon.
As Johnson steps onto the court next year in purple and gold, it’s safe to say LSU fans will be roaring from the stands, ready to welcome their new star with open arms and, no doubt, a few extra edge and lash tutorials.
Coming Soon: ZaKiyah Johnson, LSU’s Newest Triple Threat
The Tigers are looking at one stacked future, and Johnson’s addition only adds to the already formidable mix of talent and charisma in Baton Rouge. Whether it’s dropping dimes, hitting threes, or showing up courtside with that Angel-Reese-inspired flair, Johnson is ready to make her mark. So buckle up, LSU fans—the show’s about to get even better, one Instagram post at a time.
