Coach Steve Johnson has dedicated over a quarter-century to shaping young athletes and building a powerhouse basketball program at Jackson High School and beyond. Completing his 23rd season as Jackson’s Head Coach this past year, Coach Johnson has guided the Timberwolves to an extraordinary 20 consecutive winning seasons and 20 straight playoff appearances, amassing 400 career victories during his remarkable 26+ years as a high school head coach.
Under his leadership, Jackson has made 11 state playoff appearances in 23 years, earning 8 Wesco/District 1 titles, including an impressive run of five consecutive district titles from 2011 to 2015 and six straight state playoff berths from 2010 to 2015. His teams have brought home state hardware multiple times, finishing as state runners-u[ in 2010 and 2013, fourth place in 2014, and fifth in 2006. His dedication and success have earned him Wesco 4A Coach of the Year honors in 2014, 2024, and 2025.
A proud graduate of Palo Alto High School, coach Johnson was a standout athlete himself, excelling in basketball and baseball. He began his coaching journey during his senior year at the University of Washington, later putting his passion for teaching and coaching on hold while working in sales and marketing before returning to pursue his true calling. Starting at Woodinville High School as a assistant coach in 1994, he quickly rose through the ranks, becoming varsity head coach in 1999 and later moving to Jackson High School, where his legacy take root.
In addition to coaching, Steve is a dedicated educator, teaching U.S. and World History at Jackson High School, where he also serves as Co-Department Chair for Social Studies. He holds a master’s degree and an Educational Administration certificate from Western Washington University.
Beyond the court and classroom, Steve cherishes time with his family: his wife, Karen, a teacher at Woodside Elementary; twins Emily and Hunter, both 2017 JHS graduates and college alumni; and daughter Rebecca, a JHS and UW graduate. Their loyal golden retriever, Wilson, remains the family’s biggest fan. When not coaching, Steve enjoys Traveling, reading, cheering for the Huskies, golfing, and, above all, spending time with loved ones.
Coach Steve Johnson’s commitment, passion, and enduring impact on generations of student-athletes have left an indelible mark on Jackson High School and the Washington high school basketball community. His induction into the Coaches Hall of Fame is a testament to a career defined by excellence, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the game and his players.