Episode #99- Erik Johnson, Head Women's Basketball Coach, University of Denver, Denver, CO

Erik Johnson is the head coach of the University of Denver women’s basketball program, returning to lead the Pioneers in 2026 after previously serving as head coach from 2008 to 2012. During his first stint, he guided Denver to a 72-52 record, four consecutive winning seasons, and the program’s first WNIT appearance.Johnson brings more than 30 years of collegiate coaching experience, including head coaching stops at Boston College and assistant coaching roles at Fairfield, Boston College, San Diego, and Rhode Island. Most recently, he helped Fairfield win three MAAC Championships and earn three NCAA Tournament appearances.Known for building winning cultures and developing student-athletes on and off the court, Johnson holds a degree in psychology from UC San Diego and a master’s degree in adult education from Rhode Island.His wife Laura was a former volleyball player at Ohio State and was an alternate for the 2000 Olympic Team. The Johnsons have two daughters, Daly and Avery. The couple’s son Davis tragically passed away at the age of four in May of 2010. The Johnson family is thrilled to be back at DU, a place that Davis loved, and his memory is cherished.