The Golden State Valkyries selected LSU standout Flau'jae Johnson with the No. 8 pick in the WNBA draft, but the selection was immediately followed by a trade to the Seattle Storm. Valkyries general manager Ohemaa Nyanin confirmed that the trade was agreed upon before draft picks were submitted, emphasizing it wasn't about Johnson specifically.

In exchange for Johnson, Golden State acquired Marta Suarez, whom Seattle selected with the No. 16 pick in the second round, plus a 2028 second-round selection. The trade, announced just before the No. 17 pick, shocked many in attendance. Storm general manager Talisa Rhea said the team had been pursuing an opportunity to move up and acquire an impact player, expressing excitement about adding Johnson to their roster.

Johnson, who finished her college career tied for second in LSU history with 138 wins, averaged 14.2 points, 2.5 assists, and 1.3 steals as a senior. The Storm, already featuring young stars like Dominique Malonga and Ezi Magbegor, view Johnson as both an immediate contributor and long-term asset as they build for the future.