By: Maya McComb
The Moreau girls’ basketball team’s season is in full swing. The early part of the season involves quite a bit of travel to various tournaments, but one of the most important tournaments is right here at Moreau, the Galloway Invitational. Each year, the invitational honors an inspirational female athlete who has changed the game. This year, the Moreau basketball program is honoring Anna Johnson.
Anna Johnson played for the San Francisco Pioneers in 1979. The Pioneers were the first Bay Area professional women’s basketball team in the WBL, and Johnson was part of this groundbreaking team.
An Oakland native, Johnson always had a passion for basketball but did not have many opportunities in the Bay Area. When an opportunity emerged to go to Los Angeles to play basketball, she took the chance and played AAU basketball, where she won back-to-back AAU national championships.
Johnson eventually received a partial scholarship to continue her basketball career at Long Beach State. With the announcement of the San Francisco Pioneers, she was eager to try out. After demonstrating her defensive talent, she was selected to walk on for the 1979–80 roster.
Johnson’s trailblazing achievements have been honored with her induction into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. She is also recognized by the Golden State Valkyries, the WPBA, and the Oakland Tech Hall of Honors.
Ana Johnson’s impact on basketball spreads across the Bay Area and the teams she has played on. Her commitment and passion for the sport inspire other female athletes to pursue their dreams in the face of adversity.
The Moreau community is encouraged to come out and support the girls’ basketball team on Dec. 20.
Anna Johnson Award Presentation: 4:30 p.m.
Game: Moreau vs. Berkeley, 5 p.m.
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