Claude Johnson

Claude Johnson is the Founder and Executive Director of The Black Fives Foundation, established in January 2013, which focuses on researching and honoring the pre-NBA history of African Americans in basketball. Johnson authored "THE BLACK FIVES: THE EPIC STORY OF BASKETBALL’S FORGOTTEN ERA," published by ABRAMS in May 2022. Previously, Johnson founded and served as CEO of Black Fives, Inc., leading initiatives to spotlight African American basketball teams before the NBA's integration. Johnson's extensive marketing experience includes roles at Benetton SportSystem as Vice President of Marketing, Phat Licensing as Vice President of Licensing, Nike as Product Line Manager, and NBA Properties as Director of International Licensing. Early career experience includes senior marketing roles at American Express and IBM. Johnson holds an MS in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University and a BS in Civil Engineering and Economics from Carnegie Mellon University.