The J Mac Miracle: How One Shot Changed Everything | Jim Johnson

In this episode, I’m joined by Coach Jim Johnson—a veteran basketball coach with over 35 years on the bench and a heart for leadership, inclusion, and giving kids their shot.

But what makes Coach Johnson truly unforgettable? One night, one decision, and one incredible performance from a young man named Jason “J Mac” McElwain—a student with autism, team manager turned unexpected hero—changed everything.

This moment didn’t just light up the gym; it caught fire nationwide. From Good Morning America to the White House, J Mac’s 20-point performance in just four minutes (yep—six 3-pointers) became one of the most inspirational sports stories of all time.

We talk about:

• The story behind J Mac’s miraculous senior night moment
• Why Coach Johnson put him in the game—and what happened next
• How that experience changed his leadership style forever
• His biggest lessons in trust, pressure, and servant leadership
• The importance of seeing what’s possible in others

Coach Johnson also shares the leadership principles that guided his teams to success: model the behaviors you want to see, keep developing yourself, and—above all—build trust.

Whether you're a coach, a leader, or someone who believes in second chances, this episode will hit home.

🎧 Listen in now—this one’s a tearjerker, a motivator, and a masterclass in leadership.

Connect with Coach Jim Johnson:

Website: CoachJimJohnson.com

Twitter: @CoachJimJohnson

Book: A Coach and A Miracle

Follow & Connect with Trent Clark:

💡 Website: Leadershipity.com

🎙️ Winners Find a Way Podcast: https://podcast.winnersfindaway.us/podcast

📩 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trentmclark/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GAwyvYA7OY1L2JOjegX7D

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/winners-find-a-way/id1578413577

Podlink: https://pod.link/1578413577

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadershipity

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