A talented point guard who played in the NBA from 1946 to 1954, known for his exceptional passing ability and leading the league in assists twice.
Stew Johnson is a pioneering American basketball player who made history as the first black varsity basketball player for a four-year program in the southeastern United States, not including historically black colleges and universities. Johnson's trailblazing career paved the way for future generations of athletes, earning him a spot in the Murray State Athletics Hall of Fame.
Johnson attended Murray State University, where he played for the Racers in the Ohio Valley Conference. During his three seasons of varsity basketball, he averaged 16.8 points, 12.9 rebounds, and shot .417 from the field and .731 from the free throw line. He scored a total of 1,275 points in his career, earning him two All-OVC selections.
In his junior year, Johnson averaged 20.0 points and 14.1 rebounds, ranking second in conference statistics for rebounding. He helped lead the Racers to an OVC championship in 1963-1964 and served as team co-captain in his senior season.
Johnson's professional career spanned nine seasons in the American Basketball Association (ABA), playing for seven different franchises, including the Kentucky Colonels, New Jersey Americans, New York Nets, Houston Mavericks, Pittsburgh Pipers, Carolina Cougars, San Diego Conquistadors, Memphis Sounds, Baltimore Claws, and San Antonio Spurs.
Before joining the ABA, Johnson played in the North American Basketball League (NABL) for the Benton Harbor-Twin City Sailors and the Holland Carvers during the 1966-1967 season.
Stew Johnson's impact on basketball extends beyond his impressive stats and achievements. As a trailblazer, he paved the way for future generations of African American athletes, breaking down racial barriers in collegiate and professional sports.
Johnson's legacy is a testament to his perseverance, dedication, and passion for the game. He continues to inspire young athletes, coaches, and fans alike, serving as a shining example of the power of sports to bring people together and create positive change.
Johnson's outstanding contributions to basketball have earned him numerous awards and honors, including:
Stew Johnson's remarkable career serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the transformative power of sports to shape our lives, our communities, and our world.
89 Years Old
Dominant center who holds numerous NBA records, including the most points scored in a single game with 100. Known for his athleticism, strength, and unstoppable playing style.
73 Years Old
Legendary NBA champion and MVP turned charismatic sports broadcaster, known for his dominant playing career and colorful commentary style.
71 Years Old
Dominant center who played in the NBA from 1974 to 1995, winning three MVP awards and leading the Philadelphia 76ers to a championship in 1983. Known for his relentless rebounding and scoring abilities.
79 Years Old
The all-time leading scorer in NBA history, a six-time NBA champion, and a 19-time All-Star, known for his dominance on the court and his iconic skyhook shot.
80 Years Old
Dominant center and rebounder who played 16 seasons in the NBA, earning 12 All-Star selections and winning the 1969 NBA scoring title.
63 Years Old
A dominant center who led the Houston Rockets to back-to-back NBA championships and is a 12-time All-Star, known for his footwork, shot-blocking, and clutch performances.
64 Years Old
A legendary basketball Hall of Famer who dominated the court as a player and now coaches, known for his impressive shot-blocking skills and leading Georgetown University to a national championship.
98 Years Old
A renowned horticulturist and academic, he made significant contributions to the field of botany, particularly in the discovery and classification of plant species. His work has had a lasting impact on our understanding of the natural world.
