ARCATA, Calif. – Cal Poly Humboldt men's basketball is welcoming home one of its all-time greats, as Hall of Famer Kevin Johnson Jr. ('14) returns to the program as the newest member of head coach DJ Broome's staff.
Johnson Jr., who starred for the Lumberjacks from 2002–07, built one of the most decorated careers in program history. An All-American, he was named the West Region Player of the Year, CCAA Player of the Year, and earned First Team All-West Region and All-CCAA honors in 2006–07. He was also a Second Team All-West Region and First Team All-GNAC honoree in 2005–06, and Second Team All-GNAC in 2004–05.
During his career, Johnson Jr. helped Humboldt advance to the NCAA Division II Final Four in 2004 and cemented himself among the program's statistical leaders. He ranks fourth all-time in career points (1,391), second in rebounds (888), and third in field goals made (528).
After graduating in 2007, Johnson Jr. embarked on a 15-year professional career overseas, competing from 2007–22. He played in nine countries which included: Austria, Poland, Germany, Cyprus, Taiwan, Turkey, Greece, Finland, and the United States. Johnson Jr. was inducted into the Humboldt Athletics Hall of Fame in 2014.
"Returning to Humboldt in any capacity is like a dream come true for me," said Johnson Jr. "I have so many great memories of success on the court and the passionate fans. It's the place that taught me how to play basketball and shaped me into the individual I am today. I'm very grateful for DJ giving me the opportunity of joining his staff and looking forward to giving all the knowledge I have learned over the years back to the players in the program and the community."
Head coach DJ Broome shared his excitement about adding Johnson Jr. to the coaching staff.
"To be able to bring a guy like KJ to complete our staff is huge," Broome said. "His playing career at Humboldt and for the 14 years after speak for them self, but to have a guy that knows this program and community and cares about it the way he does—we're very lucky to have him back!"
Johnson Jr.'s return adds another layer of tradition and experience to the Lumberjacks, as Humboldt looks to build upon its proud basketball history and continue its pursuit of championships.
