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Unlike Her Coach, Flau’jae Johnson Took Responsibility For Sparking Benches Clearing Melee

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Flau'jae Johnson tried to rip the ball from a South Carolina player.

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LSU star Flau’jae Johnson sparked a benches-clearing brawl in the SEC Tournament Championship against South Carolina on Sunday, sending the contest into pure chaos. The scene led to a stoppage in play, ejections, and even one suspension as players had to be separated on the floor.

The scuffle began when Johnson fouled Gamecock guard MiLaysia Fulwiley as she sprinted down the court for a fast break opportunity. Rather than allow the easy two, the LSU defender grabbed Fulwiley.

Celebrating an opportunity to add to a late lead, South Carolina teammates surrounded Fulwiley and a frustrated Johnson got caught in the shuffle. While passing through the group of excited foes, she sent a vicious elbow flying at Ashlyn Watkins’ face.

It wouldn’t take long for retaliation, which came in the form of a shove from Kamilla Cardoso that sent Johnson flying to the ground. Sidelines quickly emptied after the push.

Tensions were high after the game, leading to a few fiery press conference interviews. Kim Mulkey blamed Cardoso for her role in the altercation, believing she’d crossed a line by pushing Johnson while completely ignoring the fact that her player’s elbow sparked the entire melee.

Unlike her coach, Flau’jae Johnson took responsibility for her actions.

The LSU star apologized to South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley after the fact, accepting some blame for her role.

“Flau’jae came up to me after the game and she apologized to me,” Staley said. “She just told me that she’s not that kind of player… And she’s not. She’s a really good person. Things just got escalated.”

With the win, South Carolina improved to 32-0 and 2-0 vs. LSU. The Tigers are hoping to see the Gamecocks again in the NCAA Tournament.