You think Maples and Jefferson are Westside’s only problems, think again. Zaniyah “Chip” Johnson will make opponents want to lie down and cry with her intensity.

As my intro may have you thinking, Johnson is a great defender. She is one of the best in the 2026 class when it comes to forcing turnovers and taking advantage of them. Johnson is quick, beating defenders to their spots and trapping them, leading to easy steals for the senior.

On the offensive end, Johnson is a crafty finisher inside, but she is also a solid facilitator. She handles the ball well in traffic and always keeps her eyes up, looking for open teammates.

“Chip” Johnson plays hard every single night, and there is no doubt she will do the same against Westside.

Combo Guard. Johnson started the game off the ball. Then she moved to the point guard spot. She is a patient player. She had several opportunities when she started to attack. Then she pulled the ball back out to set up the offense. She had a nice lefty post entry pass and assist. She has 3 point shooting range and a pull up shot. Defensively, she is very active on the ball.

Zaniyah “Chip” Johnson was very impressive during her junior season. She has already picked up some Division I offers, but I have a feeling more will be coming down the road.

Physically, Johnson is one of the best players in the state. She is extremely quick, cutting to the basket on a dime and somehow being able to find every crease in the defense. She can get past the defense easily with her handles, or she hit them with a step-back and knock down a jumper in their face.

On the other end of the floor, Johnson plays with a “chip” on her shoulder. She puts a lot of pressure on opposing ball-handlers, causing turnovers and taking them the other way to score.

Zaniyah Johnson Zaniyah Johnson 5'6" | PG Earle | 2026 State AR ‘s potential is through the roof. Keep an eye on this 2026 guard, because she has a chance to move up from #8.

Lighting quick guard that can score from anywhere on the floor. Good hesi and crossover kept her blowing by the defense to score layups. As the defense made the adjustments she went on fire from 3 knocking down 5 in a row. Great vision on the paint touches either hitting the drop pass or kicking it out for the open 3.

After seeing her play for the first time I can see why she is ranked as 2nd best PG in class of 2026. Definitely a player on my follow to watch list.