Reginald “Reggie” Johnson, Sr, is a three-time World Basketball Champion, humanitarian and founder and CEO of R Johnson Community Services, Incorporation. Johnson is known for using his God-given talent of “basketball” to capture the attention of others and impact their lives.
A native of Georgia, Johnson attended Cedar Grove High School in Ellenwood, Georgia where he earned a basketball scholarship from the University of Tennessee. During his time with the University (1977-1980), Johnson was a two-time, first-team All-American selection, a three-time, first-team All-Southeastern Conference honors pick and helped lead the team to two SEC championships. In 1977, he led the SEC in field-goal percentage by making 64.5 percent of his shots and finished his career ranking second all-time on Tennessee’s scoring lists with 2,103 career points.
Johnson continues to hold several records at the University today. In 2009, he was named
to the University of Tennessee’s “All-Century” Basketball Team which includes 20 of the greatest players in the school’s history. Johnson was the 15th overall first-round pick of the 1980 NBA draft by the San Antonio Spurs. He would go on to win a National Basketball Association championship, first athlete in University of Tennessee’s history to win a NBA championship, with the Philadelphia 76ers and two Spanish Supercup championships in 1986 and 1987.
For 26 years, Johnson has been the founder and chief executive officer of R Johnson Community Services, Inc. The main goal of the organization is to empower youth to reach their full potential through mentorship, community service and athletic opportunities through partnerships with Boys and Girls Club of America, Toys for Tots, Hosea, Feed the Hungry, WellSpring Living, Police Athletic League and many more. Johnson is also known for building many basketball courts throughout the metro Atlanta area.
Other ways Johnson has given back to his community include assisting with Seeded Gifts of Passions organization, advocating for anti-bullying programs, and his dedicated work with Dwayne Wade Sr.’s “ProPops” Foundation. He has also coached and assisted the youth for AAU Basketball teams and tournaments, Upward Sports Camps, and Youth Health and Wellness Programs. Johnson currently serves as president of the board for Smart Place and is a dedicated member of the National Basketball Retired Players Association Atlanta, Georgia Chapter.
Recently, Johnson was presented the Community Services Award, for Mike Glenn’s Tom Molineaux Sports Award. Johnson currently lives in the Atlanta, Georgia area with his wife, Carita. The Johnson’s have two children – son Reggie Johnson, Jr. and daughter Regina Johnson.