We have some sad news to report. According to a tweet from KJR's Dave "Softy" Mahler, former Sonic John "JJ" Johnson has passed away. Johnson played five seasons with the Sonics, including the team's back-to-back Finals appearances in 1978 and 1979. In 333 games, Johnson averaged 10.8 points and 4.6 rebounds for Seattle and was a pivotal member of the Championship team, averaging 12.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists throughout the playoffs that year.
He also played for Cleveland, Portland, and Houston during his 12 year career. He was named to two All-Star teams in 1971 and 1972.
There is no known cause of death at this time. Johnson was 68 years old.
UPDATE: 1:44 pm
Johnson's death has been confirmed by his godson, John Herndon. "He just didn't wake up," Herndon said.
