Hired in 2019, Beard, a former center at Boise State, resigned in May following his sixth season as head coach of the Scots’ boys hoops program. A 6-19 finish capped Beard’s tenure at 38-103 with just one winning season (2021-22) during his time at the helm.

In Beard’s place steps Johnson, who similarly resigned from his post as BL’s head football coach this fall following his sixth season, an 0-10 finish, leading the program. Mississippi native Ty Smith filled Johnson’s place in February, with Johnson set to continue playing a role in the school district’s strength and conditioning programs.

Johnson followed his father, Ralph, who coached BL’s football team from 1984 to 1989, taking over the reigns in 2019.

Now, Johnson’s seemingly veered back into basketball with BL’s boys hoops vacancy. A former head coach at Roy, Brighton and Northridge, Johnson’s taking up his first courtside gig since finishing a four-year run with the Knights in 2019.

BL, in particular, is searching for its next program-changer. In February, the Scots won their first playoff game since 2022, defeating No. 18 Providence Hall 64-34 as the No. 15 seed.

However, the Scots could be in luck. At Brighton, Johnson found recurring success during his seven seasons and 115-65 run as the Bengals’ head coach. Johnson led Brighton to the 5A state semifinals twice, first in 2004 and again in 2008.

Connect with sports reporter Conner Becker via email at cbecker@standard.net and X @ctbecker.