IMG Academy announced this week that Jackson Johnson will assume the role of head coach for its boys basketball national team, marking a new chapter for the storied program.
Johnson comes to IMG after a four‑year stint at The Newman School in Massachusetts, where he compiled a 108‑49 record and captured two consecutive NEPSAC Class AAA championships in his final two seasons.
The academy’s Vice President of Athletics, Brian Nash, said the leadership qualities and ability to build winning programs made Johnson the clear choice to replace Sean McAloon, who departs after a 193‑60 record with the Ascenders.
A Homecoming for a Florida Native
A Florida native, Johnson previously played high school basketball in the state before starring at Tulane University, and his return is being hailed as a homecoming that could revitalize the program’s identity.
University of Michigan head coach Dusty May publicly praised Johnson’s coaching acumen and work ethic, noting the impact he had on developing players such as Melvin Frazier, the 35th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft.
In a related move, Newman School has appointed former St. Mark’s head coach Justin Perron as its new basketball leader, after he guided St. Mark’s to a 19‑6 record and a NEPSAC championship last season.