PHOTO: 5-star LSU commit ZaKiyah Johnson shares her Santa-themed outfit for Prom 2024
Five-star LSU commit ZaKiyah Johnson, ranked first in Kentucky, was one of the most sought-after players in the women's basketball circuit before committing to the LSU Tigers. On Saturday, Johnson shared photos from her prom night, showcasing a Santa-themed outfit with her prom date.
Born to Craig J. Lewis and Taneisha Jointer, the 6-foot-1 forward hails from Shelbyville, Kentucky. Last month, she committed to the LSU Tigers at the Sacred Heart Academy gym in Louisville, turning down offers from Louisville, Tennessee and Arizona, among others.
In an interview with 247 Sports, she discussed her choice to attend LSU and emphasized the leadership and sisterhood offered by the Tigers.
"I want to come in and have a leadership role. Basketball will handle itself but off the court. I want to be a vocal leader, I want to be able to lead without any words and show what a good basketball player and teammate looks like, I want to be a part of a sisterhood where I can learn from others and they can learn from me," she said.
In a statement to On3, she spoke about her decision to play under coach Kim Mulkey.
"I’m definitely really close with all the staff there. They’re really energetic and I like that. I’m an energetic person too – I’m very social – so I think we click there. The fact that we can have long conversations is good for me."
"I'm so excited to play for Coach Mulkey. She lets her players be who they are and embraces everything they bring. … I can't wait to be under her for four years."
What makes ZaKiyah Johnson a praised baller?
ZaKiyah Johnson's high school basketball performances have garnered widespread acclaim.
In her freshman year, she played 37 games, averaging 17.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists. She upped her game in her sophomore year, averaging 22.4 points, 8.2 rebounds and 3.6 assists in 38 games. The following season, she averaged 18.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists across 37 games. Now in her senior year, she continues to shine, averaging 19.8 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.8 assists.
Moreover, she earned the title of MaxPreps Player of the Year three seasons in a row and secured three Gatorade Kentucky Player of the Year awards. Her most notable accomplishment came in the summer of 2024 when she won a gold medal as a member of the USA Women's U18 National Team.
She has amassed over 3,000 points and 1,200 rebounds in her college career, establishing herself as a standout athlete for LSU.
In early December, Johnson celebrated on Instagram her team's dominant 83-53 victory over Campbell County. She contributed 26 points, seven rebounds and four assists in that game, showcasing her all-around skills.