Joey Johnson named head coach of Canada’s women’s wheelchair basketball team

TORONTO – Joey Johnson was named head coach of Canada’s women’s wheelchair basketball national team Wednesday, Wheelchair Basketball Canada announced.

Johnson replaces Michelle Sung who steps down after two years at the helm. Under Sung, the Canadian women produced their best results in years.

She led the team to fourth at the 2024 Paralympic Games, it’s top performance in two decades. In 2025,  the Milgrove, Ont. native guided the women’s 3×3 team to gold at the inaugural IWBF 3×3 Open World Championships and bronze at the Americas Cup.

“It has been an incredible privilege to lead this program and work alongside such dedicated athletes, coaches, and support staff,” said Sung. “I’m proud of what we accomplished together and grateful for the relationships and experiences that came with representing Canada on the international stage.’’

Wheelchair Basketball Canada high performance director Jeff Dunbrack acknowledged Sung’s contributions to the program.
 
“Sung has made a lasting impact on our organization and athletes,” Dunbrack said. “Her leadership, commitment, and passion have helped shape the direction of our program, and we thank her for her dedication and service.”
 
Johnson, inducted into the Canadian Paralympic Committee’s Hall of Fame in 2019, brings extensive experience both as a coach and former men’s national team player. The Lorette, Man., native was an assistant coach with the men’s national team at the 2019 Parapan Am Games and the 2020 Paralympic Games.
 
Most recently, Johnson was head coach of Great Britain’s men’s national team, leading it to silver at the 2024 Paralympic Games.
 
“I’m honoured for the opportunity to lead this program and continue building on the strong foundation already in place,” said Johnson. “Canada has a proud history in wheelchair basketball, and I’m excited to work with this talented group of athletes and staff as we prepare for the next chapter together.”
 
As a player, Johnson was a force with the men’s squad competing in five Paralympic Games, winning three gold and one silver medal. He was also world champion in 2006.
Joining Johnson on the coaching staff is Craig Campbell, who brings more than 20 years of coaching and high-performance sport experience to the women’s national team.