Player Spotlight: Nino Johnson
Power Forward – GoTime Green Machine
Nino Johnson, a powerful and versatile forward for the GoTime Green Machine, comes from the heart of Memphis, Tennessee—and from a family full of talent and resilience. His sister played in the WNBA and won a championship with the Detroit Shock, and Nino has carried that legacy forward with his own unique journey.
Growing up, he admired two NBA legends: Shaquille O’Neal for his humor and presence, and Penny Hardaway for his focus and determination. Inspired by both, Nino carved his own path—becoming the first in his family to graduate from college and the first to see the world without joining the military.
A proud alumnus of White Station High School, Nino went on to play collegiate basketball at Southeast Missouri State. Although he didn’t start taking the game seriously until college, once he did, there was no looking back. For the last 10 years, he’s built a strong professional career, competing internationally and in the U.S.
“Basketball means a lot to me and my family,” Nino says. “It changed our circumstances and gave me a breath of fresh air.”
His dedication shows in his training. Nino works on the court 4–5 days a week, focusing on skill development, shooting, body mechanics, and overall performance. He prioritizes strength training and conditioning 2–3 times per week, daily stretching, and weekly recovery. He also studies film religiously—“You always have to be a student of the game,” he says.
While basketball is his profession, Nino’s first love was football. He was a top recruit in Tennessee and still enjoys watching the game passionately. Off the court, Nino is also an accomplished music artist. Performing under the name Nino Sincere, he currently has three singles available on all major platforms—proof that his creativity doesn’t stop at the baseline.
Nino lives and plays by a mindset rooted in faith and grit:
“Faith without works is dead.”
“You either pray or complain.”
And one of his favorite quotes:
“Find a man who has suffered a score of defeats and you will find a great soul. He may know more of truth than the man who has won a half dozen victories.”
A player, a leader, and a creator—Nino Johnson brings depth, discipline, and soul to the Green Machine.