A girl with a dream becomes a woman with a vision. If there was one person that exemplifies this quote, it would be Maranne Johnson, also known as MJ. The Antioch native was introduced into the basketball scene at the age of 4 by her father, Marvin Johnson. She credits her father as her role model. “Ever since a young girl, my daddy instilled a type of love that I can’t explain through words, Johnson states. “He inspires me to become the woman he sees when looking at me. He explained to me how strong the mind truly can be and as long as you feed it positivity, the world is yours.” Since then, she never looked back!

Her love and passion for the game were evident when she went on to play for 4 years at Sacramento State. During her time at Sacramento State, she majored in communications and saw how effective the major was in the sports world, too. “Communication has helped mold me into the woman that I am today,” Johnson states. “I will use my major to help spread positivity and knowledge to those around me. Johnson explains that being a student-athlete was not easy as many may have assumed as she explains that balancing academics and athletics was tough and a true challenge. However, she saw the blessing side of all the resources that were provided at Sacramento State for athletes such as study hall.

For two years, Johnson was able to showcase her talent professionally. She continues to play ball as she is participating in season 4 of the Basketball Beauties League this season. Marrane hopes to play in the professional league as she is currently teaching kids the fundamentals of the game and teaching them the basics of the sport. “I want to help spread the knowledge of the game to the youth, as well as, help them grow as an individual as they continue to face different obstacles that life offers,” Johnson explains. She sees women sports flourishing in a positive and hopes to see more support in the future.

When asked what advice would she give to those that want to follow her lead, MJ answers: “Keep your head held high and keep going. I won’t lie and say that it’s an easy stroll through a daisy field, but the journey is always worth it. If it is something you are dreaming to attain, then make it happen and protect it.” In so many ways, Johnson’s story stands out that can make an impact on those around her. When asked what makes her story stand out, Johnson confidently replies: “I believe I share a similar story with many young women who aspire to become a positive athletic figure but I think mine stands out because nobody walked in my shoes. I think any personal story stands out because it’s about the navigation through obstacles, trials, and tribulations. My story stands out to anybody who cares to listen. My story stands out because I am able to be here today to share it.”

To learn more about Maranne, follow her on Instagram @mjiceyy.