Basketball Mentors

Basketball

Ayrielle Johnson

University of the Ozarks

2029

Political Science, Minors in History and Psychology

Athlete Bio

I started playing basketball in the 5th grade, and ever since then I haven't stopped! My love for basketball grows every time I step on the court because it allows for me to take a step away from "reality" and focus my attention on putting the ball in the hoop. My senior year of high school I was one of the team captains on the varsity team led the team to a 2nd place district win (the highest Rockwall girls basketball has been for 5+ years). I also led my team in most made 3pt made, and percentage. I led the team in assist to turnover ratio, and was awarded Academic All District (2x). 2nd team All District, and the Team First award. At Ozarks I took a step back in more of a team player role, but that allowed me to be named to the Dean's list for my first two academic semesters at the University!

Personal Statement

I want to be a mentor because I want to be able to give mentee's good and solid advice on how an athletic journey can be impactful not only on the court or field but in your everyday life. Adversity plays a big part in sports, and being able to be mentally tough in a sport can also prepare you for a lifetime of skills that will open up when you finally hang up those shoes. Being a mentor also allows for the younger generation to hear our experiences, and with those guide them in the best way possible as their sport journey continues on!

Basketball

Lanni Brown

Jacksonville University

Grad Student

B.A. in Psychology, pursuing Master's for Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Athlete Bio

I played high school basketball at Wesleyan School and DI collegiate basketball at William & Mary. I have played basketball since late elementary school and come from a sporty family with my dad, mom, younger brother, and one of my older sisters playing basketball. While being a member of the Tribe Women’s basketball team, I was on the CAA Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll and was a Provost Award Winner. My senior year I was chosen by the coaching staff to be a class representative for our team’s Tribe Leadership Council.

Personal Statement

The mentoring community under Athletes Better Together is a high value of mine as it places the importance of relationships and support systems at the forefront of athlete mental health. As an athlete, many factors seem to exist out of our control, but I emphasize the value of focusing on the controllables: one of them being the relationships forged with peers and teammates. Through this program, I hope to not only be an outlet for young athletes, but also a tool to help guide them to their highest level of success.

Basketball

Rebekah Frisby-Smith

William and Mary

Grad Student

MS in Business Analytics, BA in Kinesiology

Athlete Bio

My name is Bek Frisby-Smith, and I’m from Adelaide, South Australia. I started playing basketball when I was four years old and have loved the game ever since. I played throughout high school for Adelaide High, South Australia Metro, and the Forestville Eagles Basketball Club. I continued my journey at William & Mary on a basketball scholarship, where I played for five years, served as team captain, and helped lead our team to a CAA Championship and an NCAA Tournament win—one of the most rewarding moments of my career

Personal Statement

Basketball has given me so many opportunities to travel, connect with incredible people, and grow through the game. As an international student, I’ve gained a unique perspective and learned to navigate new environments both on and off the court. I’m passionate about giving back by mentoring younger athletes—especially those adjusting to new challenges—and helping them grow into confident players and people.