Joe Johnson V – Class of 2002 (Alumni Monday Speaker)

On Monday, May 11, 2026, San Antonio Academy welcomed alumnus Joe Johnson V ’02 back to campus as the Alumni Monday speaker. Joe came dressed in an Academy PE uniform and played basketball with students before his interview! 

After graduating from SAA, Johnson attended Saint Mary’s Hall before continuing to Columbia University. During his time at The Academy, he spent much of his time around the basketball program, helping film practices and games alongside Coaches Heineman and Velt. Johnson shared that this experience taught him the importance of preparation, analysis, and teamwork.

Following college, Johnson worked as an operations coordinator and sideline reporter for ESPN and Fox Sports in Asia before later pursuing a career in law. During the interview, he spoke about interviewing basketball figures overseas, including Joe Bryant, the father of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, and explained how communication and listening skills became important in both broadcasting and law.

Johnson also reflected on favorite memories from his years at SAA, including traveling with teammates, participating in school traditions, and enjoying classic cafeteria favorites like chicken on Mondays and grilled cheese on Fridays.

Before concluding, Johnson encouraged students to value the friendships and brotherhood formed during their time at The Academy, reminding them that those connections often last a lifetime.

About Alumni Mondays: Each Monday, we welcome an Academy alumnus to speak to SAA boys during chapel or special programming. During these presentations, alumni share meaningful stories and lessons from their days at SAA.