Humans of NGU: Kentucky hooper finds her purpose in Tigerville
Joseph Jordan, Contributing Writer
Austin Johnson still remembers the game that made her feel unstoppable. It was early in the season, and North Greenville University’s women’s basketball team was traveling to face Claflin University for their homecoming game.
The Trailblazers would eventually go on to win 64-61. Johnson ended the game with 8 points, 4 rebounds and even went a perfect 6 for 6 from the free throw line.
“Teams often schedule NGU as their homecoming opponent, thinking it’ll be an easy win,” Johnson recalls. “That really motivated us to prove them wrong.”
The team had been rigorously preparing under Coach Kevin Long’s guidance. On game day, Johnson stuck to her pregame ritual: sipping coffee and praying during the national anthem. As she laced up her shoes, matching them to her uniform color, she gave herself a pep talk.
“I remind myself that I was made imperfect, but God will get me through no matter what,” Johnson said. “That mindset helps me stay focused when times get tough as a student-athlete.”
Growing up in Kentucky, Johnson idolized basketball star A’ja Wilson. Now, she looks up to Olympic hurdler Sydney McLaughlin.
“I admire how Sydney carries herself and lives out her faith,” Johnson explained.
As she enters her second year at NGU, Johnson is excited about the team’s potential. She credits Coach Long for pushing them to improve every day.
“That Claflin game showed what we’re capable of when we put in the work and play with purpose,” she said.
For Johnson, finding her purpose extends beyond the basketball court. She’s embracing her journey at NGU, imperfections and all, with faith as her foundation.
