In November 2024, LSU Women’s Basketball secured a significant commitment from five-star recruit ZaKiyah Johnson, who chose the Tigers over prominent programs such as Kentucky, Louisville, and Alabama. Johnson, hailing from Shelbyville, Kentucky, is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2025 class, with rankings as high as No. 4 by On3 and Prospects Nation. citeturn0search0
Johnson’s decision to join LSU was influenced by the program’s culture and the vision presented by head coach Kim Mulkey. She expressed enthusiasm about contributing to a team that has demonstrated consistent success and a commitment to excellence. This commitment bolstered LSU’s recruiting class, which was unanimously ranked No. 1 across various platforms, featuring other five-star talents like Divine Bourrage, Bella Hines, and Grace Knox. citeturn0search0
Johnson’s versatility on the court allows her to impact the game in multiple facets, making her a valuable addition to the Tigers’ roster. Her commitment reflects LSU’s growing prominence in women’s college basketball, as the program continues to attract elite talent and build upon its storied tradition.
This recruitment victory over regional rivals underscores LSU’s expanding influence and the effectiveness of Coach Mulkey’s recruiting strategies. As Johnson transitions to the collegiate level, her development will be closely watched by fans and analysts, anticipating that she will make significant contributions to the Tigers’ pursuit of national championships.
In summary, ZaKiyah Johnson’s commitment to LSU over programs like Kentucky, Louisville, and Alabama highlights the Tigers’ ascendancy in women’s basketball. Her addition to the top-ranked recruiting class signifies a promising future for LSU as they aim to maintain their status as a powerhouse in the sport.