Sakima Walker, a dominant 6-foot-5 senior center for the South Carolina Gamecocks, has drawn national recognition for her impact in NCAA women’s basketball. Her upbringing and family support have been instrumental in her path to success.
A standout at Africentric, Walker won two state titles and contributed to the Lady Nubians’ undefeated 2018-19 season. Despite entering college with high expectations, her initial experience at Rutgers fell short. Still, Walker’s roots in a winning culture helped shape the resilience she now displays on the court. Her journey reflects both athletic excellence and a strong familial foundation.
Inside Sakima Walker’s Roots: The Family Behind Her Rise
Walker, a Columbus, Ohio native, built her foundation for success early at Africentric Early College, where she guided her team to back-to-back Division III state titles in 2019 and 2020. Her dominance on the court earned her the Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association Division III Player of the Year and recognition as the 2020 Naismith Trophy Girls High School Player of the Year.
While her athletic record is widely known, her mother, Nakia Johnson, remains a quieter but vital presence. Although little is known publicly about Nakia’s personal or professional background, her influence on Sakima’s journey is undeniable. While her mother is a cornerstone of her life, very scarce information is available publicly about her father.
Described as her daughter’s “rock,” Nakia played a crucial role during some of Sakima’s darkest moments, particularly at Rutgers University during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It was tough… I told them she was depressed because of COVID. I’d seen that took a toll on her, and I let them know,” Nakia said, emphasizing her advocacy for Sakima’s mental health.
Reflecting on Sakima’s transformation, Nakia proudly said,
“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… Resilient. That’s the word I use when I think about Sakima.”
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After transferring from Rutgers to Northwest Florida State College, Sakima excelled, averaging 16.7 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. She led her team to an NJCAA National Championship and was named NJCAA Division I Player of the Year in 2023. Her growth continued in South Carolina, where she became a key contributor in a 38-win season culminating in a National Championship.
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