Flau’jae Johnson’s endorsement of Unrivaled carries serious weight in women’s college basketball. When one of LSU’s biggest stars throws her support behind the professional 3-on-3 league, people pay attention. Her partnership with Unrivaled shows how the league is building bridges between college and professional basketball, creating opportunities that didn’t exist before.

Why Did Flau’jae Johnson Choose Unrivaled Over Other Options?

Unrivaled made some smart moves during the WNBA All-Star Weekend, and the timing couldn’t have been better for the league’s growth. The 3-on-3 league announced NIL deals with 14 of college basketball’s biggest names, with Johnson and JuJu Watkins leading the group.

Johnson didn’t hold back when explaining what drew her to the league. “Unrivaled was lit. When I watched the first game, I was like, this is real. It was super professional and catered to the athletes,” Johnson explained.

The LSU guard sees even bigger things ahead for the league. “It’s going to get more and more active, more and more competitive. I don’t know what’s happening in the back, but I think there’s just going to be more incentive to turn up,” she added.

What Makes This Partnership Different From Johnson’s Previous Deals?

Johnson’s relationship with Unrivaled has evolved since she first joined. Her initial December 2024 NIL deal included equity in the league, giving her an ownership stake. However, her July 2025 renewal follows the standard NIL format without additional equity.

The 14 college players who signed represent elite talent across women’s basketball. USC’s JuJu Watkins, UConn’s Azzi Fudd, and Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo joined Johnson in this partnership, creating a showcase of the sport’s future stars.

The WNBA All-Star Weekend provided perfect timing for these announcements. With women’s basketball popularity soaring, Unrivaled used the spotlight to showcase their commitment to developing college stars.

Beyond the financial benefits, Johnson sees value in what Unrivaled offers athletes. The league focuses on professional competition, player-friendly policies, and opportunities that traditional leagues don’t always provide. For a player balancing basketball and music careers, this flexibility matters.

Johnson’s influence extends far beyond her on-court performance. As one of college basketball’s most recognizable faces, her endorsement carries weight with fans and fellow players alike. When she speaks positively about Unrivaled, others listen.

This partnership positions Unrivaled perfectly for future growth in women’s basketball. Having Johnson as both partner and advocate gives the league credibility as they expand their reach. Her genuine enthusiasm for the league’s mission resonates with fans and creates momentum for upcoming seasons.