Dominique Johnson, one of the best players to wear a Cougar uniform, returned to Azusa Pacific to join the Cougar coaching staff prior to the 2023-24 campaign, following his retirement from a 13-year professional playing career. Johnson’s pro career included stops in the NBA G League, stints with NBA teams during training camp, and he played at the top level in 10 different countries. Most recently, Johnson played in the nationally televised BIG3 league, where he was named the 4th Man of the Year in 2023 with the Killer 3’s. Johnson won a combined seven championships and cups over the course of his professional career.
Prior to his professional journey, Johnson starred for the Cougars for two seasons (2008-09, 2009-10) after transferring from Southwest Tennessee Community College. In both seasons, Azusa Pacific won the GSAC and Johnson earned All-American and All-GSAC recognition. In his senior season, Johnson helped lead the Cougars to a 28-10 record and an appearance in the NAIA title game, as he averaged 17.2 points per game on 49% shooting overall and nearly 39% from beyond-the-arc.
Johnson’s experience and wisdom that he gained over the course of his illustrious playing career will be of tremendous value to the Cougar program, as he will be able to relate to the players in a unique way. Johnson is passionate about giving back to the next generation of basketball players, as he seeks to ensure that the student-athletes he coaches and mentors are best equipped for success both on and off of the court. In addition to his mentorship of players, Johnson assists in scouting, game planning, practice planning, travel booking, skill development, film breakdown and more.
Johnson graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Studies in 2010, and he is nearing completion of a Master’s in Leadership from Azusa Pacific.
Johnson and his wife Marissa, who met as students at Azusa Pacific, have a daughter Penelope and a son Makai.
