Josie Aslakson’s achievements on the basketball court have inspired countless fans and athletes, but behind her Paralympic medals and international success lies a story deeply rooted in the support of her parents, Theodore Aslakson and Becky Miller.
Born on September 14, 1995, Josie’s life took a dramatic turn at the age of five when a devastating car crash left her paralyzed from the waist down.
While such a life-altering event could have ended many childhood dreams, it marked the beginning of a remarkable journey.
Josie Aslakson’s Parents Supported Her In Her Basketball Journey
Her father, Ted Aslakson, recalled the moment Josie first discovered wheelchair basketball.
At the time, she was attending an archery lesson at the Courage Center in Minneapolis. Coincidentally, a wheelchair basketball team was practicing nearby.
Ted said,
“The coach noticed Josie and encouraged her to try the sport. Eventually, she gave it a shot and never looked back.”
From that moment forward, Theodore and Becky became her constant cheerleaders, drivers, equipment managers, and emotional pillars.
Whether it was hauling gear, attending practices and tournaments, or simply offering emotional encouragement, they made sure Josie had everything she needed to thrive in the sport she quickly fell in love with.
Josie went on to play wheelchair basketball at Jordan High School before committing to the University of Texas at Arlington, where she competed for the highly regarded Lady Movin’ Mavs.
Later, she transferred to New York University to pursue her passion for storytelling and dramatic writing at Tisch School of the Arts.
Through the years, Josie’s hard work and her parents’ dedication bore fruit.
She represented Team USA at the 2018 and 2022 Wheelchair Basketball World Championships, the 2019 and 2023 Parapan American Games (winning silver and gold, respectively), and both the 2020 and 2024 Summer Paralympics, where she earned bronze and silver medals.
Now serving as the head coach of the University of Arizona’s women’s wheelchair basketball team, Josie’s story continues to inspire.
Josie once said,
“I owe so much to them. They’ve been with me through everything, the accident, the recovery, the first time I picked up a basketball, and every single medal since.”
