Flau’jae Johnson is making a difference off the court by helping wipe out $5 million of debt for 5,000 Louisiana families.
On March 14, 2025, global data and technology company Experian announced that the Louisiana State University women’s basketball guard would serve as spokesperson for its initiative to help relieve impoverished families following reports of record-high consumer debt. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Louisiana has one of the highest poverty percentages in the country.
Johnson will promote financial literacy and share her experiences managing finances as one of the leading college athletes with a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal, per a news release.
“You know what’s bigger than basketball? Financial empowerment,” Johnson said in an Experian commercial. “Finances are tough, and Experian is helping the next generation pursue their dreams. … 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.”
Dacy Yee, the president of Experian consumer services, noted in a statement that “unmanageable debt” prevents consumers from reaching their goals.
“We hope this debt relief and access to Experian tools will help beneficiaries in Louisiana move toward a healthier financial future,” Yee added.
With Johnson set to join the LSU Tigers for their matchup against the San Diego State Aztecs in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament on Saturday, March 22, 2025, Experian will forgive an additional $100,000 in consumer debt for each LSU victory throughout the event, up to a total of $500,000, per the news release.
“It’s hard to create a winning financial game plan when you are blocked by debt,” Johnson said. “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.”
Johnson, a junior business major at LSU, has established herself as one of the team’s key players, leading with an average of 18.9 points per game this season, according to the LSU team page.
As she aims for a second NCAA title, Johnson is on a mission to create generational wealth. In October 2024, she purchased 20 acres of land, AFROTECH™ noted. Earlier, in August, she announced her first land acquisition in her home state of Savannah, GA.
At that time, she said the land represented more than just a financial investment; it was about building something beyond basketball and music.
“I want to create opportunities for my community and leave a legacy that shows young women, especially young Black women, that we can do it all,” Johnson said, as AFROTECH™ reported. “Owning 20 acres at [the age of 20] is proof that with vision and hard work, we can break boundaries and build the future we dream of.”
