Halifax, Nova Scotia – Pro basketball star Chris Johnson is making a difference in the lives of Halifax youth by organizing an anti-racism tournament aimed at empowering young individuals. The tournament, now in its third year, not only promotes social justice but also funds skills development programs for youth in the area.
Having made a name for himself in the basketball world, Johnson believes the sport is more than just a game. He sees it as a powerful tool to connect with young people and set them on a path towards inclusivity and a better future. Johnson has had an impressive career, competing against the likes of NBA superstar Jimmy Butler, playing in front of roaring crowds in the NCAA’s March Madness tournament, and being teammates with renowned Canadian NBA players Andrew Nicholson, Tristan Thompson, and Corey Joseph.
Inspired by the protests and calls for change following George Floyd’s murder and the Black Lives Matter movement, Johnson started the tournament in the fall of 2020. He wanted to use basketball as a platform to deliver a powerful message about anti-racism to the youth in his community.
This year’s tournament, held at Citadel High School, is expected to draw around 250 young athletes from grades 5 to 12. The event combines basketball games with guest speakers and discussions on anti-racism. Prominent figures such as African Nova Scotian educator Rachel Ross, former AUS all-star and St. FX basketball coach Augy Jones, and longtime HRCE principal and lieutenant-colonel Kenneth Fells will share their insights and experiences.
For Johnson, the true power of the tournament lies in the message of anti-racism rather than the basketball aspect. By reaching a large number of young individuals, he hopes to create a lasting impact and foster a more inclusive society.
Reflecting on his own journey, Johnson has come a long way from his humble beginnings in rural Nova Scotia. After high school, he transferred to Eastern Commerce in Toronto, a basketball powerhouse that has produced NBA all-stars like Jamaal Magloire. Johnson’s talent caught the attention of Kilgore College in Texas, where he averaged 11 points per game and received 21 Division-1 offers to continue playing basketball at the NCAA level. He eventually chose St. Bonaventure in New York, where he played for two seasons and embarked on an eight-year professional basketball career, traveling to countries such as Scotland, Germany, Portugal, and back to Canada.
Now, Johnson’s focus is on nurturing the dreams of the next generation of Halifax basketball players. Halifax has become a hub of talent, producing players like Lindell Wigginton of the Milwaukee Bucks, Nate Darling of the Ontario Clippers, and Johnson’s younger brother, Caleb, who recently committed to playing basketball at Jacksonville State.
Johnson firmly believes that with increased visibility and more opportunities, young players from Halifax will have the chance to reach new heights in the basketball world. By instilling a strong belief system and offering support, he hopes to guide them on their journey toward success.
The third annual Anti-Racism Tournament organized by Chris Johnson at Citadel High School is not just about basketball. It is about inspiring youth to stand against racism, promoting social justice, and creating a more inclusive society. Through the power of sports, Johnson is making a difference and empowering Halifax’s young generation to embrace diversity and work towards a better future.
