Johnson Removed As Seattle U. Head Coach

Bob Johnson has been relieved of his duties as Seattle University men's basketball coach after six seasons.

The school made the announcement yesterday afternoon after a meeting between university officials and Johnson. The two parties could not reach an agreement allowing him to stay. The school released a statement that it was "a mutually acceptable agreement" but terms remain confidential.

"I can't comment beyond the statement," said the school's public-relations director, J. Paul Blake. "There's not much else I can say, other than to wish him well in future endeavors."

Johnson, who played and coached at the University of Washington, had a 73-103 record at SU. The Chieftains were 16-15 last season and advanced to the NAIA District playoffs for the first time under Johnson before losing in the semifinals. Johnson's best record was 17-13 in 1986-87.

Johnson, 47, a two-year letterman (1965 and 1966) in basketball for the UW, was a Husky assistant under Marv Harshman for 10 seasons (1976-1985). Before joining Harshman's staff, Johnson coached at Seattle Central Community College, Franklin High School and Tufts University.

Johnson, who replaced Len Nardone as SU head coach before the start of the 1985-86 season, could not be reached for comment. Staff reporter Bob Sherwin contributed to this report.

JOHNSON'S TENURE

-- He replaced Len Nardone as Seattle University's head coach before the 1985-86 season.

-- Johnson was 73-103 in six seasons at Seattle U.

-- He guided the Chieftains to a 16-15 mark last season and into the NAIA District playoffs.

-- Johnson's best record was 17-13 in 1986-87.