Mathew Johnson has been named as an assistant coach of the Princeton University men’s basketball team, as announced by Franklin C. Cappon-Edward C. Green ’40 Head Coach Mitch Henderson Monday.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Mat Johnson to our staff,” said Henderson. “He brings a championship pedigree, deep roots in our local basketball community, and a clear understanding of what makes Princeton special—both on the court and in the classroom. Mathew’s experience at UConn, winning two national championships, shows his commitment to excellence at every level. His passion for player development and his appreciation for Princeton’s academic values make him a great fit for our program.”
Johnson joins Princeton from UConn, where he was part of a staff that coached the Huskies to national championships in 2023 and 2024.
“I am truly honored and excited to join the Princeton Basketball family as an assistant coach on Coach Henderson’s staff,” said Johnson. “Growing up just a short drive away from the prestigious university, I have always admired the program’s longstanding passion for development and excellence both on and off the court. Having the opportunity to add to the rich tradition of Princeton Basketball is something that I do not take for granted, and I look forward to showing that gratitude through my efforts daily.
During my time at UConn, I have been fortunate to learn so much about coaching, building relationships, and what it takes to sustain excellence. Yet, after six seasons, my family and I are thrilled to return home to New Jersey as the newest Tigers in the Princeton community.”
Johnson’s time with the Huskies was defined by winning. Along with the two national titles and five NCAA Tournament appearances, the Huskies won the Big East Regular Season and Tournament Championships in 2024. UConn went 149-52 for a winning percentage of 74.13% during his time on staff and Johnson worked with nine players who made it to the NBA and 12 all-conference selections.
At UConn, Johnson oversaw film production, including breakdown of opponents and evaluation of the Huskies. He worked closely with the coaching staff to assist in planning day-to-day practice sessions and game strategy. Johnson produced all aspects of opponents scouting reports and strategized with assistants directly on the execution of game plans while managing in-game defensive match ups.
As a recruiter, Johnson assisted in the recruitment and signing of top-five recruiting classes in 2023 and 2025. He planned and executed the operations of on-campus visits, and created visual presentations to be presented to recruits
Johnson made a monumental impact during his time with the Huskies, and UConn Head Coach Dan Hurley is excited for his next step.
“Mat has done great things for us the last few years and played an important role in our championship success,” said Hurley. “He is a hard worker and smart basketball mind who can connect with players at a high level. Mat will do a tremendous job at Princeton as he takes the next step in what will be a long and successful career in coaching.”
Johnson graduated with Magna Cum Laude honors from the University of Tampa in 2017 with a B.S. in Accounting. He helped guide the Spartans to the 2014 NCAA Tournament, was a College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District honoree and a three-time Sunshine State Conference (SSC) Commissioners Honor Roll selection. Johnson ended his career at Tampa ranked fourth all-time in program history in assists and was a four-year letterman along with a two-year captain.
From Columbus, New Jersey, Johnson graduated from the Lawrenceville School in 2013.
Johnson Coaching Timeline
Princeton University, Assistant Coach (2025 – present)
University of Connecticut, Video and Scouting Coordinator (2022 – 2025)
University of Connecticut, Program Assistant (2021 – 2022)
University of Connecticut, Graduate Assistant (2019 – 2021)
https://goprincetontigers.com/news/2025/6/2/mathew-johnson-named-mens-basketball-assistant-coach
