Austin Johnson, raised in Amarillo, Texas, is considered one of the best basketball players to emerge from the Texas Panhandle.
As a standout athlete in high school, he achieved numerous accolades, including being a two-time First-Team All-State selection by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches, a three-time District 3-4A Player of the Year, and the Amarillo Area MVP. He notably recorded a career-high of 44 points in a game on two separate occasions. One of the highlights of Austin's high school career came on January 10, 2003, when he recorded a rare quadruple-double as a sophomore. In that game, he achieved an impressive stat line of 24 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists, and 10 steals. This extraordinary accomplishment not only solidified his place in high school basketball history, but also earned him recognition from Sports Illustrated, highlighting his talent on a national stage.
Austin, who was raised in Amarillo, Texas, and has now emerged as one of the most talented basketball players from the Texas Panhandle, earning a reputation for his exceptional skills and accomplishments both on and off the court.
Upon graduating, Austin finished his high school career as the leading scorer in Amarillo city history, with an astonishing 2,602 points—a record that still stands as of 2025. His performance at The University of Oklahoma further established his legacy; he ranks 12th all-time in assists, 13th in steals, and 20th in blocks, showcasing his versatility and well-rounded skill set as a player.
After completing his college career, Austin took his talents overseas, where he played professionally for five years. During the 2011-2012 season, he found himself in Lebanon, joining Al Moutahed Tripoli (Division A). There, he made a significant impact, averaging 21.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 5.8 assists over the course of 26 games, demonstrating his ability to adapt to different playing styles and cultures. His international journey continued in 2013 when he led his team to a championship victory in Jordan, an experience he cherished deeply. Reflecting on his global adventures, Austin stated, “Traveling the world playing basketball is indescribable. I have played in countries like Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Germany, and Switzerland, where I encountered diverse cultures, religions, and backgrounds. I feel that my family and I are truly blessed to have had these experiences throughout my athletic career.”
After wrapping up his professional basketball journey abroad, Austin returned to his roots in Amarillo, where he embarked on a new chapter by founding Austin Johnson's Academy of Hoops. In this role, he dedicates himself to training young athletes and coaching club teams, traveling across the country to provide his expertise.
At his academy, Austin believes in personalized training; he personally oversees every athlete that comes through, whether in one-on-one sessions or small groups. This approach allows him to interact directly with each participant, fostering a supportive and encouraging environment. He specializes in numerous aspects of the game, providing insights and skills that players may not find elsewhere. Furthermore, he manages multiple club basketball teams, actively coaching them throughout the year, which enables him to cultivate a greater sense of teamwork and competitiveness among his players.
Austin is passionate about mentoring young athletes both on and off the court. “I really enjoy mentoring these young athletes; I respect them just as much as they respect me. Without these kids, I wouldn’t have the successful business I do now. I sincerely thank each and every one of them, as well as their parents, for placing their trust in me to help their athlete reach the next level,” he explains. He has many players who have emerged from his program who have earned basketball scholarships and he continues to guide them through their athletic career.
Outside of basketball, Austin enjoys spending quality time with his wife and three daughters. As a family, they love traveling the world and making memories together—both on vacation and on the basketball court, where Austin coaches his daughters. Along with his adventurous spirit, Austin has a deep passion for the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and even noodling—catching fish with his bare hands!
In the summer of 2025, Austin will receive the prestigious honor of being inducted into the Texas Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame, celebrating his incredible basketball journey. His numerous accolades, skillful performances, and unwavering dedication to the sport have set him apart as a true icon. This recognition reflects not only his individual achievements but also the impact he has made on young athletes in the region, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance.