Shayla Johnson was hired to her current position in August of 2008. She came to Portland after spending two years as an assistant coach at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. Johnson previously was a standout guard at the University of Rhode Island.
“Shayla was an excellent (NCAA) Division I player and has both high school and collegiate coaching experience,” Sollars said. “We’re pleased to have her at Portland and we think she’ll do a great job coaching and recruiting, especially with the guards.”
While at Cheyney, Johnson helped guide the team to a seven-win improvement. In 2008, the Wolves reached the conference tournament for the first time in 19 years. Johnson assisted with every aspect of the Cheyney program, including recruiting, guard development, academic progress, scouting and conditioning. While under her watch, two Cheyney guards received post-season conference recognition, while the team GPA reached 3.2.
“I’m excited to be here and to be a part of this University and women’s basketball program,” said Johnson, a native of Cheltenham, Pa. “I know this group has great potential, so I’m looking forward to winning with the Pilots. I just want to get the most out of the team and be competitive in the WCC.”
Prior to her stint at Cheyney, Johnson was a guard at Rhode Island (2000-04), where she played alongside former UP assistant coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin. Johnson was a 1,000-point scorer with the Rams and landed on the Atlantic 10 Conference All-Defensive team three times. She was also named to multiple all-tournament teams and was voted the MVP at the 2002 Terrapin Classic. As a co-captain during the 2002-03 season, Johnson helped lead the Rams to the A-10 championship game.
Johnson spent 2005-06 as an assistant coach at Cheltenham High School, her alma mater. In her one season with the Lady Panthers, she helped lead the team to the district championship game and to the Final Four at the state tournament.