Welcome to Stack’s House, Mayor Johnson! We are happy to have you! Let’s get started…
Stack: We overlapped in the league about five years, mostly when I was with Philly and Detroit, and you were running things in Phoenix. Even though the East and West split wins in the NBA All-Star Games those years, which conference do you really think dominated?
Mayor Johnson: Come on Stack, of course the West dominated. Although any team with MJ has an advantage.
Stack: Who was the toughest guy to defend (and don’t feel obligated to say me)?
Mayor Johnson: Last I checked, you didn’t play much point guard. Stockton was physically the toughest, and Terry Porter and I had some head-to-head battles that were memorable. Of course, however, the answer to your question is MJ.
Stack: You have to tell me…when you posterized Hakeem in a play that goes down in highlight reel history, what kind of words did you two have with each other after you got down from the rim?
Mayor Johnson: I’ve got to tell you, I was so geeked on adrenaline that I don’t remember what words were exchanged. It was something I won’t soon forget, I can tell you that much.
Stack: What are your thoughts on the state of the NBA today? Do you think an NBA lockout is looming?
Mayor Johnson: I certainly hope a lockout doesn’t occur, for the fans’, the players’ and the ownerships’ sake. Coming off last year’s great NBA Finals series, we know there’s a solid product out there, and if ever the two sides should work together, now is the time. All revenue numbers should be accurately revealed and let the two sides negotiate a fair and reasonable agreement.
Stack: So, you retired in 1998 and then returned to replace J-Kidd during the playoffs. What encouraged you to return briefly that season and step in?
Mayor Johnson: For me it was simple. I was asked by Cotton Fitzsimmons to help in a time of need. It was my call of duty. The Suns had been my family for 12 seasons, and when they asked, I responded.
Stack: After you officially retired in 2000, how did you know it was really the right time for you to retire from playing basketball?
Mayor Johnson: My body ached too much! In all seriousness, I had planned for a life after basketball and really utilized my time in the NBA as a stepping stone to something else. I took every opportunity the NBA provided to better myself emotionally, intellectually and financially so that when the time was right, I could easily transition into business and other endeavors.
Stack: When did you know you wanted to pursue politics? What measures did you begin taking to reach that goal?
Mayor Johnson: As I said above, the NBA prepared me to pursue many opportunities. After retiring, I returned to Sacramento, my hometown, and began focusing on my non-profit organizations. As the years passed, I more closely watched the political landscape in the city and realized I was in a position to help. So, I took the plunge.
Stack: What is more challenging: NBA basketball or politics?
Mayor Johnson: They both present a unique set of challenges, but they also can be learned through preparation and hard work. I apply what helped me succeed on the court to help me navigate the world at City Hall.
Stack: As NBA legend Dave Bing is now Mayor of Detroit, you two must have a lot to talk about. What type of relationship have you developed with him?
Mayor Johnson: I’ve communicated with Dave several times since the election and we both sit on the US Conference of Mayors, so we exchange ideas and share other thoughts from time to time.
Stack: What is your top priority while serving as Mayor of Sacramento?
Mayor Johnson: To create a city that works for everyone. My top priorities through my first two years have been: education, homelessness, volunteerism, public safety, the environment, and the arts. We have created initiatives on every one and continue to make progress to strengthen the City of Sacramento.
Stack: I understand you have had meetings with President Obama. What was he like? Did you guys hoop?
Mayor Johnson: I’ve had the honor of meeting the President. He is truly a fascinating leader and impressive individual. I know he’s got game, but we’ve yet to match up on the court.
Stack: As you are engaged to Michelle Rhee, who has positively impacted the Washington, D.C. public school system for years, have you (or will you) adopt any of the programs she championed?
Mayor Johnson: Michelle has worked tirelessly to reform the education system, as we know it in Washington. In fact, there are increased efforts nationwide to help the system that is badly in need of fixing. In Sacramento, and around the country, we need joint efforts from school boards, teachers, unions, parents and community leaders to make a difference. Education reform is the new civil rights movement.
Stack: Aside from politics, what else do you hope to accomplish in your short and long-term future?
Mayor Johnson: Continue working hard to make a difference in the City of Sacramento and help create a city that works for everyone.
Stack: I don’t know how much time you have to watch basketball these days, but a couple prediction questions about the upcoming season for you. NBA Champion? MVP? Rookie of the Year?
Mayor Johnson: Los Angeles Lakers, Kevin Durant, and Blake Griffin.
Thank you, KJ! I wish you all the best!
