Christopher Keon Johnson Bio
Christopher Keon Johnson, born March 10, 2002, is an American professional basketball player currently with the Maine Celtics of the NBA G League. He played college basketball for the Tennessee Volunteers and was selected 21st overall in the 2021 NBA draft by the New York Knicks. Johnson has played for multiple NBA teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers and Brooklyn Nets, before joining the Maine Celtics.
Early Life and Background
Keon Johnson was born in Shelbyville, Tennessee. His mother, Conswella Sparrow Johnson, was a standout basketball player who won Tennessee Miss Basketball twice and played collegiately at Auburn. Johnson faced a significant challenge before high school when a fireworks accident caused open fractures in four fingers and required surgery and extensive physical therapy to save his hand.
He attended The Webb School in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, where he excelled in basketball. As a sophomore, he averaged 25.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, earning Tennessee Mr. Basketball honors. He repeated this achievement as a junior while leading his team to the state semifinals. A meniscus injury cut short his senior season after four games, during which he averaged 30.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists.
Johnson was rated a consensus five-star recruit and committed to the University of Tennessee in 2019, becoming the highest-ranked player in the state for the 2020 class.
Path to Basketball
Johnson’s high school dominance and recruitment by top programs paved his path to college basketball at Tennessee. He quickly made an impact as a freshman, highlighted by a career-high 27 points against Kentucky. His performance earned him a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team in 2021.
Following his freshman year, Johnson declared for the 2021 NBA draft, foregoing remaining college eligibility. At the NBA Draft Combine, he set a record with a 48-inch maximum vertical leap, showcasing his athleticism and potential at the professional level.
Christopher Keon Johnson Career
Early Career (2021–2022)
Johnson was selected 21st overall in the 2021 NBA draft by the New York Knicks but was immediately traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. He signed his rookie contract with the Clippers and appeared in 15 games during his rookie season. Johnson also spent time with the Clippers’ G League affiliate, the Agua Caliente Clippers, gaining valuable professional experience.
Portland Trail Blazers Breakthrough (2022–2023)
In February 2022, Johnson was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. He made his debut shortly after and recorded a career-high 20 points in April 2022. Johnson played a key role in the Trail Blazers’ 2022 NBA Summer League championship, averaging 14.2 points per game. Despite a broken finger injury in March 2023 that sidelined him indefinitely, Johnson showed promise as a developing player during his time in Portland.
Brooklyn Nets Era (2023–2025)
Johnson signed a two-way contract with the Brooklyn Nets in November 2023 and re-signed with them on a multi-year deal in July 2024. He had a breakout season during the 2024-25 campaign. However, the Nets waived him in September 2025, making him a free agent.
Maine Celtics Era (2025–Present)
In December 2025, Johnson signed with the Maine Celtics of the NBA G League, continuing his professional career and seeking to build on his previous NBA experience.
Playing Style and Strengths
Johnson is known for his athleticism, highlighted by his exceptional vertical leap. His versatility as a shooting guard allows him to contribute scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. His physical attributes and work ethic have helped him adapt to the professional game and improve his impact on both ends of the floor.
Notable Events and Milestones
Johnson’s record-setting vertical leap at the NBA Draft Combine remains a standout achievement. His back-to-back Tennessee Mr. Basketball awards in high school and selection to the SEC All-Freshman Team underscore his early career promise. His role in the Trail Blazers’ 2022 Summer League championship is a key milestone in his professional journey.
Christopher Keon Johnson Career Wins
While primarily recognized for his potential and athleticism, Johnson’s career highlights include significant contributions during his college season and impactful performances in the NBA Summer League. His professional career is ongoing as he continues to develop his game.
College Highlights
Johnson averaged 11.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game as a freshman at Tennessee, earning SEC All-Freshman Team honors. His career-high 27-point game against Kentucky was a highlight of his collegiate tenure.
Professional Highlights
Johnson’s professional career includes playing for multiple NBA teams and their G League affiliates. His Summer League championship with Portland and his record vertical leap at the draft combine are notable achievements.
Christopher Keon Johnson Family
Family Background and Basketball Lineage
Johnson’s mother, Conswella Sparrow Johnson, was a distinguished basketball player who won Tennessee Miss Basketball twice and played at Auburn University, earning two All-SEC selections. This basketball lineage has influenced Johnson’s development and passion for the sport.
Personal Life
Details about Johnson’s personal life beyond his family background are private. There is no public information regarding a spouse or children.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Johnson signed with the Maine Celtics of the NBA G League after being waived by the Brooklyn Nets. This move represents a new chapter as he aims to leverage his athleticism and experience to advance his professional basketball career. His performance with the Maine Celtics will be pivotal for his future opportunities in the NBA.