Storm’s Talisa Rhea ‘really excited’ about Flau’jae Johnson trade with Valkyries

The Golden State Valkyries grabbed attention during the WNBA Draft on Monday after trading eighth overall pick Flau’jae Johnson to the Seattle Storm in exchange for 16th overall pick Marta Suarez and a second-round pick in 2028.

Many were dumbfounded by the Valkyries’ decision, as Johnson could be a foundational piece for the squad after her outstanding career at LSU.

Obviously, the Storm have no problem at all with Golden State’s move. Acquiring the 22-year-old Johnson was a huge coup, especially after losing key players in free agency.

Storm general manager Talisa Rhea did not hide her joy after getting Johnson, as reported by ESPN’s Alexa Philippou.

“The opportunity to add Flau’jae was really exciting and incredible for us. We didn’t think that she would be available at that point. We had been in conversations, and so, as we got closer to that pick, once it became a reality, (we were) just really excited,” said Rhea.

“We’re really excited about how she aligns and helps us this year, but also is going to be a really important piece for us as we’re building for the future.”

With Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins, and Gabby Williams all gone, Johnson is expected to have a big role for Seattle right away.

The versatile guard will team up with Ezi Magbegor, Erica Wheeler, and Dominique Malonga in trying to lead the Storm, who finished with a 23-21 record last season.

In her final year at LSU, Johnson averaged 14.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.3 steals, while shooting close to 40% from three-point range. She helped the Tigers capture the national title in 2023.

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