Meet Amari Bailey’s Mom: The Woman Behind the Rising Basketball Star

Amari Bailey is one of the most exciting young basketball players today. But behind his journey is a strong and loving mother — Johanna Leia.

She’s more than just “Amari Bailey’s mom.” She’s a model, businesswoman, TV personality, and someone who raised two kids mostly on her own.

In this article, we’ll learn all about her life. We’ll see how she supported Amari, what work she does, and how she became known in the public eye. Her story is full of love, strength, and surprises.

Johanna Leia Profile Summary

Her Real Name and Background

Johanna Leia’s real name is Johanna Edelberg. She later became known as Johanna Leia, which is the name she uses in public.

She grew up with her mom, Joan Edelberg, who raised her as a single parent. Johanna’s mother helped her learn about both sports and creativity. That’s where Johanna’s love for basketball and fashion first began.

From a young age, Johanna was active and full of energy. She enjoyed sports and was also interested in beauty and modeling. This mix of interests shaped the woman she would become later in life.

Her Life as a Young Mom

Johanna became a mom when she was just 23 years old. She gave birth to her son, Amari Bailey, in 2004. Being a young mom is never easy, but she gave it her all.

She raised Amari Bailey and his younger sister Savvy (also called Savanna) mostly by herself. Even though it was tough at times, she always stayed focused on her kids.

She didn’t come from a fancy or rich background. But she worked hard, stayed strong, and gave her children all the love and support they needed to grow.

Her Bond With Amari Bailey

Johanna and Amari Bailey share a very special bond. Amari has even called his mom his best friend.

He once wrote a sweet note thanking her for always being there. He thanked her for being strong, for guiding him, and for keeping their family together.

Johanna was there for every early morning practice. She was always cheering him on. She gave up her own dreams so that Amari could follow his.

Johanna Leia’s Modeling Career

Before people knew her as a basketball mom, Johanna worked as a model. She was signed with big agencies like Wilhelmina and Ford Models.

She did photo shoots, brand deals, and worked in fashion. As time passed, she also became popular on Instagram, gaining hundreds of thousands of followers.

She worked with well-known brands like Fashion Nova and became an influencer. Her modeling background helped her build confidence and her own brand.

Her Work on TV and Reality Shows

Johanna didn’t just stay behind the scenes. In 2017, she and Amari appeared on a reality show called Bringing Up Ballers.

The show followed moms and their basketball-playing kids in Chicago. It showed how these mothers helped their children reach their goals.

At first, Johanna liked being part of the show. But later, she said the show became too dramatic. Amari also didn’t enjoy it much. Still, it gave people a chance to see Johanna’s strong role as a mom.

Johanna Leia didn’t stop at being just a sports mom. She used her experience to start her own sports company.

She created a business called Just Living. It helps young athletes and their families. She gives advice, support, and shares what she learned while raising Amari.

She once said that working in sports is like stepping into a “men’s club.” But she didn’t let that stop her. She stayed strong and built something helpful for others.

She Comes From a Sports Family

Johanna didn’t just watch basketball — she played it too when she was younger.

She was a left-handed basketball player in high school, just like Amari. This helped her train him at home when he was little.

She went to the gym with him. She helped him work on his shooting form and focus. She also taught him how to stay calm and smart during games.

More Than Just Amari’s Mom

Many people know Johanna because of Amari. But she’s also a mom to a young daughter named Savvy.

Savvy is active and full of energy. She enjoys soccer, surfing, and skiing. Johanna shares sweet photos of Savvy having fun with friends and family.

Even though Amari is a rising star, Johanna gives love and time to both her children. Her family always comes first.

Her Love Life in the Spotlight

Johanna’s relationships have made news over the years. In 2021, she was seen on a date with rapper Drake at Dodgers Stadium.

They were also seen together at Amari’s basketball games. The two dated for a few months but then went their separate ways.

Later in 2022, Johanna was linked to NBA star Ja Morant. People saw her at his games and noticed that they followed each other on Instagram. No one knows if they are still in touch.

Even with all the attention, Johanna keeps most of her personal life private.

She Also Works in Real Estate

Not many people know this, but Johanna is also involved in real estate.

She comes from a family of realtors, and she became a real estate broker too. It’s another part of her career that shows she can do many things.

Working in real estate gives her more freedom and business skills. It’s just one more way she keeps growing in life.

The Porsche Gift from Amari

In 2021, Amari did something very special for his mom. He used his NIL money to buy her a Porsche Cayenne.

He was only 17 years old when he bought the gift. He said it was just a small way to thank her for everything she had done.

Johanna was very proud and surprised. Amari also said he hopes to buy her another car in the future. This sweet moment shows how much love they share.

Her Life Today and What’s Next

Today, Johanna Leia lives in Los Angeles. She is still close to her children and supports Amari in every step of his basketball career.

She continues her work as a businesswoman, influencer, and mom. She also helps other athletes and families through her company.

Johanna is an example of someone who stays strong, learns new things, and never gives up. She’s building a future not just for herself, but for her family too.

Final Thoughts

Johanna Leia is not just Amari Bailey’s mom. She is a role model, a fighter, and a smart woman who wears many hats.

She has been a model, a TV star, a sports manager, a real estate broker, and most importantly, a loving mother.

Her journey shows that with hard work and love, you can do many things in life. And while Amari shines on the court, Johanna shines just as bright by his side.

(FAQs)

What does Amari Bailey’s mom do for a living?

Johanna Leia is a model, TV personality, social media influencer, business owner, and real estate broker. She also runs a sports company called Just Living, where she helps young athletes grow their careers.

Did Amari Bailey’s mom date Drake?

Yes, Johanna Leia was seen dating rapper Drake in 2021. They even had a private dinner at Dodgers Stadium. The relationship didn’t last long, but it made big news at the time.

Is Johanna Leia also an athlete?

Yes! She played basketball in high school and is left-handed, just like Amari. Her own love for the game helped her train and support her son from the beginning.

How many kids does Johanna Leia have?

She has two children — Amari Bailey and a younger daughter named Savvy. Johanna raised them mostly on her own and shares a close bond with both of them.

What did Amari Bailey gift his mom at age 17?

Amari used his NIL money to buy his mom a Porsche Cayenne in 2021. He said it was the least he could do to thank her for everything she had done for him.

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