CAMP PENDELTON, California –
"I think everyone sees me as like the OG is what they call me, like the veteran," U.S. Navy Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Christie Ayers says with a grin. As a player who’s been through it all, Christie embodies the kind of leadership that only comes from decades of dedication to both basketball and service. She earned that nickname from 10 years of past teammates playing for Armed Forces Sports. Her journey started at just five years old in her hometown in Pearl City, Hawaii, where she was always in some sport, dragging her parents to every sporting event on the island. “Since I was little, I was just in the game,” she says. “My brother was into sports too, so we were always active year-round, just doing something competitive.”
Christie’s love for basketball grew with her, driving her through high school and college, where she learned discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Those lessons became the foundation of her leadership style, which she now shares with everyone around her. “Sports in general has molded me as far as leadership,” she explains. “You learn to balance personalities, you can’t talk to everybody the same. You have to be adaptable, and that skill translates into the military, especially when things get intense.” Her ability to stay calm and collected under pressure has served her well, both on the court and in her career. “In the military, things can ramp up so quickly, and you learn how to stay cool,” she says. “That’s helped me a lot in basketball, especially in high-stress moments.”
Her reputation as the “OG” comes from a lifetime of experience, and she’s proud of the wisdom she passes on. “People trust me because of all the experience I’ve gained,” Christie shares. “And I try to be approachable. I want to help others, share what I’ve learned, and hopefully inspire them to keep pushing.” She’s quick to add that her leadership isn’t about shouting orders; it’s about setting an example. She hopes to inspire younger players to embrace the sport as a platform for personal and professional growth.
Her journey has also taught her about perseverance and enjoying the ride. “I think I could have been more dedicated in training,” she admits. “But I’ve had a pretty good career, and I’m grateful I can still play at this level. Playing keeps me grounded, keeps me active, and honestly, I just love the game.” “The more I play, the more I understand, and I don’t really get nervous anymore,” she says. “I just focus on having fun and making the most of it. It’s a blessing to still be out there doing what I love.”
Sharing her journey, Christie reflects on the importance of mentorship. “I think I’ve become more approachable because of my experience,” she explains. “People come to me for advice, and I try to pass on everything I’ve learned, not just about basketball, but about life, about balancing everything.” She emphasizes that being in the military has helped her develop a sense of calmness, “When conflicts happen… you learn how to stay cool, and I bring that to the court.” “So I don't really get those pregame jitters and stuff. I'm more, like, focused and just ready to play basketball and have fun.”
Looking to the future, Christie hopes to see the Navy Women’s Basketball program grow and thrive. “I want more players to stay involved,” she says. “Oftentimes, players come in, play for a year or two, and then they’re gone. I’d love to see more longevity, more people coming back and building the program. It’s a blessing to be here, especially now, and I want everyone to really enjoy this opportunity and make the most of it.”
For Christie, basketball is more than just a game, it’s a source of camaraderie, and a platform to lead and inspire. Her journey continues to remind everyone that experience, humility, and passion can create something truly special. “I’ve been around a long time,” she says with a smile, “but I still get excited every time I step on the court. That’s what keeps me going, loving the game and sharing it with others.”
Christie describes her team as a family, “for the most part,” she laughs, “like any family, we have differences, but we come together when it counts.” She emphasizes the importance of connection, not just on the court, but off it too. “Meeting new people from different backgrounds and cultures, being able to put 12 people together in such a short time and go out there and compete, is pretty awesome. That’s what I love about it,” she says. “It’s about unity, respect, and enjoying the process.”