Golden State Valkyries trade pick Flau’jae Johnson to Seattle Storm
The Golden State Valkyries have traded eighth overall pick Flau’jae Johnson to the Seattle Storm just 45 minutes after drafting her in New York.
In a stunning move on WNBA draft night, the expansion franchise sent the dynamic guard to Seattle in exchange for Marta Suarez and a 2028 second-round selection.
The former LSU All-American had only just heard her name called at the podium before the unexpected transaction occurred.
Valkyries remain tight-lipped over trade
Golden State general manager Ohemaa Nyanin declined to provide specific reasons for the rapid departure of the 2023 national champion.
I’m going to take a beat to be able to eloquently give a response. I don’t have a lot of detail to share.
Nyanin added that she wanted to be thoughtful when discussing players and their abilities, while refusing to comment on whether salary cap implications played a role.
The Valkyries will now welcome Suarez, a 6ft 3in post player who averaged 17.1 points and 7.4 rebounds for TCU this season.
Storm secure an unexpected star
Seattle will pair their new acquisition with third overall pick Awa Fam Thiam as they look to build a formidable young core.
Storm general manager Talisa Rhea expressed her delight at securing the high-profile talent, who is also a signed Roc Nation recording artist.
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.
Rhea confirmed the Pacific Northwest side had been exploring opportunities to move up in the draft for an impact player.
The guard leaves college basketball tied for the second-most wins in LSU history, having averaged 14.2 points and 2.5 assists during her senior campaign.
