By Mike Moguin

Making the varsity squad as an athlete in any sport is a big deal. That is the case for Carl Albert High School’s Zoie Johnson, who is just a freshman for the Titans. 

“It is an accompaniment that I am most proud of,” said Johnson, who also plays tennis at CAHS.

Playing at Carl Albert is not something to take for granted, and she knows it. 

“My favorite part about representing my high school as an athlete is the fact that our school is known for winning, and just being a part of such a great program is a blessing,” Johnson said. 

The game has taught her to move on quickly from miscues. 

“Basketball has taught me that you can’t get in your head when you make a mistake because no one is perfect and there are going to be mistakes made, but you have to move on with a positive mindset,” Johnson said. 

Working together is a key to success, and this young Titan has her partners to work with.

“I actually have two teammates who have made a big impression on me – Annabel and Brinly,” Johnson said. “They have been my teammates for a while, and we are always pushing each other to be better anytime we practice or train. The people who inspire me are my family because they are always pushing me to be the best version of myself, even when it’s hard.”

“My favorite teacher is Chief Humphrey,” she said. “He is a hands-on and visual teacher, which helps me a lot when I don’t understand the material we are learning about. He is also very kind and never fails to put a smile on people’s faces.”

Johnson’s favorite teams in women’s college basketball are OU, LSU, and Notre Dame, “Because they all play with a lot of intensity and I love it,” she said. 

Her favorite WNBA teams are the Las Vegas Aces and the Dallas Wings. “Both teams are very well coached and fun to watch,” she said. 

There are activities that Johnson is active in, which are not sports-related, but when she has some down time, she knows exactly how to spend it.

“I am involved in Key Club, which is where I do community service hours to help the community,” the Carl Albert freshman said. “I am also in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), and this is where a lot of athletes from my school get together and learn more about our faith. I love to hang out with my friends, do bible studies, and go to church. All of these things keep me grounded in the beautiful life I get to have.”

Johnson is grateful for everyone in her life.

“I would like to give a shoutout to my parents and trainers, just to say thank you for spending time, energy, and money on me to help me become a better athlete at any given moment,” Johnson said.