Success and basketball have always been Sakima Walker’s world. A two-time state champion at Africentric and part of the undefeated 2018-19 Lady Nubians team, she was used to winning. However, her college journey at Rutgers didn’t start off as expected. The COVID year hit hard, and behind her bright smile, there was sadness. By her sophomore year, she became academically ineligible.
“I knew what I had to do, ’cause I had never struggled in the classroom,” Sakima said. “But I wasn’t in a good mental space.” After two tough years, Sakima made a bold move–she transferred to Northwest Florida State, a junior college. And that’s when everything changed. She got her smile back!
That summer, she took on the grueling challenge of seven classes a day to get back on track. And guess what? Her determination paid off! In that very season, she led the Raiders to a JUCO national championship. More importantly, she graduated with her associate’s degree. With her confidence and grades back on track, she rejoined Division I basketball, becoming part of the reigning national champions, the South Carolina Gamecocks. A year later, in her home state of Ohio, Sakima hoisted the NCAA championship trophy after South Carolina’s victory over Iowa in Cleveland. The champion experienced success again.
Throughout this incredible journey, one thing remained constant: Her family. She’s mentioned multiple times that she wouldn’t be where she is today without them. In fact, on the Rutgers website, Sakima described her mom as her role model. So, as the Gamecocks prepare to face Texas for a spot in the championship game, let’s dive deeper into Sakima’s background and learn more about the family that’s supported her every step of the way.
Who are Sakima Walker’s parents? What do they do?
Sakima Walker’s mother, Nakia Johnson, has always been the steady force in her life. While details about Sakima’s father remain scarce on the web, one thing is crystal clear–Nakia has been the ultimate support system. Through every challenge, she’s been the rock the 2020 Naismith Trophy Girls High School Player of the Year could lean on, guiding her through both the highs and the lows.
Jan 15, 2024; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks center Sakima Walker (35) grabs a rebound from Kentucky Wildcats forward Ajae Petty (13) and guard Brooklynn Miles (0) in the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports
Nakia was the happiest woman on the court last year when her daughter became a national champion. “To see her, like, rebuild herself and to do what she needed to do and to buckle down. I knew she always had the confidence, but it was just getting out of that mental space,” Nakia said. “Resilient. That’s the word I use when I think about Sakima.”
Does Sakima Walker have any siblings?
Unfortunately, there’s no publicly available information about Sakima Walker’s siblings. It remains a mystery for now. Her family background remains largely private, with only her mother, Nakia, being publicly acknowledged. Until more comes to light, that part of her story remains untold.
What is Sakima Walker’s parents’ nationality?
Nakia Johnson is an American national, and it’s safe to say that both she and Sakima are proud Americans. Born in Columbus, Ohio, Sakima’s roots are firmly planted in the States. While she has yet to represent Team USA, her talent and drive suggest it’s only a matter of time.
As South Carolina gears up to face Texas, it’s easy to picture Nakia in the stands, cheering her daughter on with pride. With her family’s support behind her and a championship within reach, Sakima is ready to rise to the moment and bring her team one step closer to glory.
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