Dilonna Johnson was hired as the new varsity girls’ basketball coach for the 2019-20 season. She previously coached at Como Park in Saint Paul where she served as the assistant varsity coach. Johnson is excited to work with the team because “they are one of a kind… from multi-sport athletes to theater superstars.” Johnson played basketball all throughout high school at Dominican High School as well as at Drake University and Southwest Baptist University, and she is thankful for the opportunity to pass on her knowledge.

How do you feel about the girls basketball team?

Our basketball team is one of a kind. From multi-sport athletes to theatre superstars, we are a team of talented individuals. Each one of them bring something special to the court every day.

What made you want to coach them?

My drive to coach these student-athletes came from my dedication and love for the game of basketball. Playing at a very high level of basketball all my life, inspired me to pass down the knowledge I have acquired to hopefully teach them to use this game as a tool for growth in all areas of their life.

Have you coached other teams?

I previously coached at Como Park Senior High School as their Varsity Assistant Coach. We had a stellar season only using a few games last season and going undefeated in Conference.

How is the season going so far?

Our season is going a lot better than our record shows. I have seen these student-athletes make a complete change in how they practice, respond to coaching, and in the way they lead one another. It is about more than basketball. They are exciting to watch!

What do you think can be improved?

We are constantly working on reading the floor and playing off of one another. Their vision from the first game to now has improved immensely.

when did you start your coaching career?

My coaching career officially started 2018, 2 years after graduating college from Southwest Baptist University and attending Drake University (Full Ride Basketball Scholarships)

have you coached any other sports?

I was a 1 sport athlete, playing basketball year around and training to completely mold my game into what I needed to get to the college level. I have not taken on the role of any other sports for this reason, but I am open!

Did you play basketball or sports in highschool/college?

I played basketball at Dominican High School in Milwaukee, WI. I received All State, All Conference, All Academic, broke a dozen records, and MVP honors throughout my High School Career. I received a full scholarship to play at Drake University. Due to a coaching change, I transferred to Division II Southwest Baptist University in a very competitive MIAA Conference in Missouri/Kansas Area. I received an invite to play overseas in Brazil on a DII USA National team as well! These experiences were short lived, but will never be forgotten.