Clinton “Trey” Johnson III begins his first season as the head men's basketball coach at Jackson State University, bringing with him an elite combination of professional playing experience, championship pedigree, and a proven track record of player development.
A Jackson, Mississippi native, Johnson is widely regarded as one of the most decorated players in program history. During his standout collegiate career, he earned back-to-back First Team All-SWAC honors (2005–06, 2006–07) and was named the 2006–07 SWAC Player of the Year after a dominant senior campaign in which he averaged over 27 points per game—ranking among the nation’s top scorers. He also garnered Preseason Player of the Year honors, was named SWAC Tournament MVP, and led the Tigers to the 2007 SWAC Tournament Championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance.
Johnson’s legacy at Jackson State is cemented in the record books. He remains the program’s single-season all-time leader in scoring (points per game and total points), free throws made, and free throws attempted, while also joining the prestigious 1,000-point club in just two seasons. His national recognition includes being named a Box To Row All-American, a 2006 Bailey Howell Trophy finalist, and the 2007 Bailey Howell Trophy Award winner. In recognition of his historic impact, Johnson was inducted into the Jackson State Sports Hall of Fame in 2020.
Following his collegiate success, Johnson launched an impressive professional career spanning nearly a decade. He played in the NBA Development League with the Bakersfield Jam, where he earned NBA D-League All-Star honors and was named First Team All D-League. His performance led to multiple NBA call-ups, including stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Lakers, and New Orleans Hornets.
Internationally, Johnson built a global résumé competing across Serbia, France, Italy, Japan, Israel, and Venezuela, while also representing the Qatari National Team in international competition. His overseas success further showcased his scoring ability and adaptability against elite competition worldwide.
After his playing career, Johnson dedicated himself to player development, working extensively with both amateur and professional athletes. Known for his ability to develop elite scorers and well-rounded guards, he trained and mentored players at multiple levels, helping them elevate their skill sets, basketball IQ, and professional readiness.
Johnson began his collegiate coaching career at Alabama State University in 2020, where he served as Associate Head Coach for two seasons. During his tenure, he played a key role in player development, recruiting, and game strategy, helping guide the program’s growth and competitiveness within the conference.
He then returned to Jackson State as Associate Head Coach, where over the past four seasons he has been instrumental in developing top talent and mentoring All-SWAC performers—most notably Jordan O’Neal (Defensive Player of the Year 2023), Ken Evans Jr. (Player of the Year 2024), Dorian McMillian (Freshman of the Year 2025), and Daeshun Ruffin (Player of the Year 2026 & Bailey Howell Trophy Finalist 2026). Johnson’s impact has been felt both on and off the court, as he has helped prepare student-athletes for professional opportunities while reinforcing a culture of discipline, accountability, and excellence.
Now at the helm of his alma mater, Johnson brings a championship mindset, elite playing experience, and deep institutional pride as he leads Jackson State into its next era.
Off the court, Johnson’s connection to Jackson State runs deep. His father, brother, wife, and several extended family members also attended the university. His wife, Dana Johnson (Yoshimura), is a former SWAC Champion and Defensive Player of the Year in volleyball, further cementing the family’s legacy of excellence at Jackson State. Johnson is also a proud father of six children: Cynia, Michael, Kaloni, Carleigh, Cristin, and Selah.
