Highlights
- Brandie Wilkerson and partner Melissa Humana-Paredes advance to the quarterfinals at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
- Wilkerson’s diverse background includes art, multiple sports, and a family of athletes.
- Despite past relationships influencing her career, Wilkerson is currently single and focused on Olympic success.
Brandie Wilkerson, the Canadian beach volleyball sensation, has come a long way since her ex-boyfriend, a former national team player, first inspired her to pursue the sport.
Great Partnership
In a thrilling Round of 16 match at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Brandie Wilkerson and her current partner Melissa Humana-Paredes defeated the unbeaten American duo of Kristin Nuss and Taryn Kloth in straight sets (21-19, 21-18).
The Canadian pair, who had a challenging pool play experience, stepped up their game when it mattered most.
Brandie (July 1, 1992), known for her exceptional right-side blocking skills, has partnered with Humana-Paredes, another great player.
The duo began their partnership in October 2022 and quickly established themselves as one of the world’s top teams.
Despite being a relatively new pairing, they have found strong chemistry and success on the court.
Both players bring valuable Olympic experience from Tokyo 2020, where they competed with different partners.
Wilkerson previously played with Heather Bansley, with whom she achieved the world No.1 ranking and competed at Tokyo 2020, finishing fifth.
Parents And Family
Brandie Wilkerson’s athletic prowess runs in her family.
Born in Switzerland, she moved to Canada at the age of seven. Reflecting on her upbringing, Wilkerson shared,
“When I was younger, I moved all around the world. My dad was recruited for the Cleveland Cavaliers, and now he plays for the Euro Basketball team in Switzerland.”
Her father, Herb Johnson (né Wilkerson), is a former basketball player drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers of the NBA.
He played professionally in various countries, including France, Spain, Japan, Turkey, and Switzerland.
Her mother, Stephanie, was a Swiss national runner and a two-time Ironman finalist.
Speaking about her mother’s influence, Wilkerson said,
“My mom was never overprotective. She let us live and learn our own ways in our own style, so I really appreciated the freedom she gave us.”
Wilkerson also has three younger siblings with whom she shares a tight bond and describes them as “energetic role models.”
Enjoying A Single Life
As of the latest information available, Brandie Wilkerson is not currently dating anyone.
Her social media presence suggests she is enjoying her single life and focusing on her career.
In a 2012 interview, Wilkerson once said,
“I’m actually looking at beach volleyball right now. My boyfriend played on the national team for beach volleyball, so he is my influence. From there, hopefully playing for Team Canada.”
At that point, she was dating someone, but right now, she seems to be in no relationship.
Beyond volleyball, Wilkerson has diverse interests and talents. In high school, she pursued visual arts, obtaining a diploma from the prestigious Mayfield Art School in Brampton.
Her artistic pursuits include photography, painting, carving, and sculpting.
Describing herself as “a hippie that loves listening to Motown,” Wilkerson maintains a grounded perspective on life and sports.
She advocates for not comparing oneself to others and believes in staying true to one’s own path.
As she continues to excel in beach volleyball, Wilkerson remains an inspiring figure both on and off the court.
Just So You Know
- Brandie Wilkerson is the 2018 FIVB Best Blocker and has competed on the AVP tour.
- She graduated with a degree in communications with a focus on fashion and editing.
- Her parents are proud of her achievement.
[…] The volleyball star recently shared a boat trip photo with McBain, offering fans a rare peek into their personal lives. […]