Cal Poly Humboldt Athletics

The Jacks will welcome an old friend back this winter.

On Friday afternoon, the local university announced that Hall of Famer Kevin Johnson Jr. is returning to Arcata to join the men’s basketball coaching staff.

Johnson starred for the Lumberjacks from 2002-07 and built one of the most decorated careers in program history.

During his time with the program, Johnson earned All-American honors and was named the West Region Player of the Year and the California Collegiate Athletic Association Player of the Year.

He also helped lead Humboldt 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).

He joins new head coach DJ Broome’s staff.

“Returning to Humboldt in any capacity is like a dream come true for me,” he said. “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 I’m looking forward to giving all the knowledge I have learned over the years back to the players in the program and the community.”

After graduating in 2007, Johnson embarked on a 15-year professional career overseas, competing from 2007-22. 

He played in nine countries, including Austria, Poland, Germany, Cyprus, Taiwan, Turkey, Greece, Finland and the United States. 

Johnson was inducted into the school’s Athletics Hall of Fame in 2014.

And Broome is excited about the move.

“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.”