September 9th, 2026Basketball BC Mourns the Passing of Former Executive Director Lawrie Johns

Basketball BC is deeply saddened by the passing of former Executive Director Lawrie Johns, who passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at the age of 81. For more than two decades, Lawrie was one of the guiding forces behind the growth and development of basketball in British Columbia, leaving a legacy that continues to influence our sport today.
Lawrie joined Basketball BC in 2000 and devoted the next 22 years to serving the basketball community. During that time, he held several leadership roles, including 14 years as Executive Director. Whether working with clubs, coaches, officials, volunteers, athletes, or community partners, Lawrie's focus was always on creating opportunities for young people to participate in sport and reach their full potential.

Many of the initiatives that helped shape youth basketball in British Columbia bear Lawrie's influence. Among his most significant contributions were the development of the U12 Metro League, the successful growth of the Jr. Grizzlies Youth Basketball Program, and the establishment of the Steve Nash Youth Basketball program. What began as a provincial initiative grew into a nationally recognized program that introduced countless young Canadians to the game. Through these programs and many others, Lawrie helped make basketball more accessible and more enjoyable for generations of young athletes.

As Executive Director, Lawrie guided Basketball BC through periods of growth and change while remaining steadfast in his belief that young athletes deserved the best possible environment in which to learn, compete, and develop. His leadership helped strengthen Basketball BC's reputation as a leading provincial sport organization and positioned the organization for long-term success.

"Lawrie's contribution to Basketball BC cannot be measured simply by years of service or programs developed. For more than two decades, he helped shape the direction of our organization and created opportunities for thousands of young athletes across British Columbia. Many of the opportunities available to players today exist because of Lawrie's vision, dedication, and belief in the power of sport to positively influence lives. On behalf of Basketball BC, I extend our deepest condolences to Lawrie's family and thank him for the lasting legacy he leaves within our basketball community."
- Stuart Graham, President, Basketball BC

Much of Lawrie's work took place behind the scenes. He organized leagues and tournaments, supported coaches and volunteers, strengthened relationships across the province, and worked tirelessly to ensure opportunities existed for young people to experience the benefits of basketball. Those who worked alongside him knew him as a dedicated leader, thoughtful mentor, and passionate advocate for sport.

Lawrie's commitment to sport extended far beyond basketball. Over his distinguished career, he served as Executive Director of the Canadian Federation of School Sports, was a Master Swimming Official for more than 30 years, served as President of the Richmond Rapids Swim Club, and contributed to numerous organizations and initiatives throughout British Columbia's sport sector. In recognition of his outstanding service, he was honoured with Sport BC's Eric Whitehead Inspired Service Award in 2022.

While his accomplishments were many, those who knew Lawrie best will remember his humility, kindness, and unwavering belief in the power of sport to positively impact young people's lives. He was a mentor, colleague, and friend to many throughout the basketball community, and his influence can still be seen across the province through the programs he helped build and the people he inspired.

On behalf of the Basketball BC Board of Directors, we extend our heartfelt condolences to all his family and friends during this difficult time. Thank you, Lawrie, for your extraordinary service to Basketball BC and to sport in British Columbia. Your contributions will never be forgotten