How a creative playmaker earned the nickname "the Wizard" on the court
In short: Marine Johannès is not your typical basketball player. Known for an atypical style and advanced game, the French star has captivated fans with creative passing and shooting skills. From the French leagues to the WNBA, her unique flair has transformed her into one of the most entertaining players in international basketball.
Born in Lisieux in 1995, Johannès began playing basketball at age eight. Her unconventional approach was quickly recognized by scouts, leading her to join USO Mondeville at 12. By 17, she was already playing professionally in France's top division, the Ligue Féminine de Basketball, during the 2011-12 season. She first discovered her passion for the sport after watching her sister practice.
Her career is defined by both high-scoring outbursts and remarkable versatility. During the 2015-16 season, she averaged 14.2 points and 4.4 assists. She later achieved a career-high of 38 points against USK Praha in the 2020-21 season. Her ability to entertain is officially recognized; she was named the Most Entertaining Player of the EuroLeague regular season in 2018–19. Her versatility was further highlighted when she secured a spot on the All-EuroLeague 2nd team twice. She also earned a place on the All-LFB First Team on three separate occasions.
On the international stage, Johannès has been a mainstay for the French national team, competing in the 2016, 2020, and 2024 Summer Olympics. During the 2024 Paris Games, she stood out as the only player to record five three-pointers in multiple games. Her journey has also seen her navigate the complexities of professional scheduling, such as her decision to skip the 2025 Eurobasket to remain with her WNBA team, the New York Liberty. She earned a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after defeating Serbia. Additionally, she has represented France in multiple EuroBasket tournaments, securing silver medals in 2017, 2019, and 2021.
Whether leading Lyon ASVEL to a EuroCup title in 2023 as Finals MVP or competing in the WNBA, Johannès continues to push the boundaries of traditional playmaking. She has also achieved success in the WNBA, winning the Commissioner's Cup twice.
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