Edward Waters University

Kavaci-A "Shay" Johnson is a passionate and dedicated basketball coach with a strong playing background. After graduating high school in 2018, Shay played at the University of Central Arkansas before transferring to Rust College in 2019. There, she made an immediate impact, earning 1st Team All-Conference honors and helping the team secure the regular season championship.
 
In 2020, Shay continued to shine on the court, being named 1st Team All-Conference and 1st Team All-Defense, contributing to another successful season as the team clinched the regular season title. Her talent and hard work culminated in a standout 2022 season, where she was instrumental in leading the team to the GCAC Championship, earning Championship MVP honors and spots on the GCAC All-Conference and All-Defensive teams. Shay was recognized as a Top 20 All-American in NAIA and has the honor of having her jersey displayed in the Ring of Fame at the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Nashville, TN.
 
In 2023, Shay began her coaching career as a Student Assistant alongside Eric Jackson, where she helped the team win the GCAC Championship two years in a row. 
 
In 2024, Shay expanded her coaching experience by working alongside Eric Jackson at Rust College and coaching on the men’s side with Howard White Jr. With a deep understanding of the game and a commitment to player development, Shay is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of basketball coaching.