Shawnee Public Schools is excited to announce the hiring of Chad Johnson as the new head coach of the Shawnee High School boys basketball program. With an impressive background at collegiate and professional levels, Johnson brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and energy to the Wolves' sideline.
"We are beyond excited to announce Chad Johnson as our boys' head basketball coach," said Shawnee Athletic Director Dax Leone. "First and foremost, Chad Johnson is an unbelievable person. He checks so many boxes for our kids, and his passion for Shawnee was so infectious from day one. Chad is a top-notch coach, and his college basketball experiences, as well as his time with the Dallas Mavericks, make this all so special for our players and community."
An Edmond Santa Fe High School graduate, Johnson played NCAA Division I basketball at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Journalism and News Media, followed by a master’s degree in Business Management. His coaching journey includes roles at the University of Central Oklahoma and Oklahoma Christian University, where he most recently served as Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach while also working as Director of Intercultural Development.
In addition to his collegiate coaching background, Johnson spent time with the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks as a player development intern and analytics volunteer. His work included draft scouting, advanced metrics reporting, and assisting with player workouts, giving him a unique analytical edge and professional insight he now brings to the high school level.
“I am so excited for Shawnee to get to know Chad Johnson,” said Bob Hoffman, Head Coach at the University of Central Oklahoma. “He was a big-time help for us here at UCO. He has worked very hard and at many levels of basketball to get this opportunity. Beyond all of his basketball knowledge, he is a tremendous communicator and leader of young men.”
Johnson's coaching philosophy centers around player development, academic accountability, and building a strong, character-driven culture on and off the court. His experience coordinating recruiting, practice planning, scouting, community outreach, and fundraising at the college level has prepared him well to lead the Wolves.
“I’m incredibly honored and humbled to join the Shawnee community,” said Johnson. “This program has so much potential, and I’m excited to pour into these young men; to teach, to challenge, and to help them grow as athletes and as individuals.”