Childhood and Education Journey of Ernie Johnson Jr. in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 8, 2025

An overview of the childhood and early education of Ernie Johnson Jr., highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Ernie Johnson Jr. is a prominent American sportscaster for TNT Sports, known for his work as the television voice and studio host for Major League Baseball on TBS. He is also recognized as the host of Inside the NBA, broadcast on TNT, ESPN, ABC, and NBA TV. Additionally, Johnson contributes to the joint coverage of the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament for TNT Sports and CBS Sports. His father, Ernie Johnson Sr., was a Major League Baseball pitcher and Atlanta Braves play-by-play announcer, establishing a family legacy in sports broadcasting.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

August 7, 1956: Ernest Thorwald Johnson Jr. Born

On August 7, 1956, Ernest Thorwald Johnson Jr. was born. He is now an American sportscaster for TNT Sports.

1956: Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

In 1956, Ernie Johnson Jr. was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His father, Ernie Johnson Sr., was a Major League Baseball player.

1964: Family moved to Atlanta, Georgia

In 1964, Ernie Johnson Jr.'s family moved to Atlanta, Georgia after his father retired from professional baseball.

1974: Graduated from Marist School

In 1974, Ernie Johnson Jr. graduated from the Marist School in Brookhaven, Georgia.

1978: Graduated from University of Georgia

In 1978, Ernie Johnson Jr. graduated summa cum laude from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism.

2003: Diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

In 2003, Ernie Johnson Jr. was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, but continued his work.

June 2006: Began treatment for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

In June 2006, Ernie Johnson Jr. began treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, causing him to miss TNT's coverage of the British Open and PGA Championship.

October 31, 2006: Returned to Inside the NBA

On October 31, 2006, Ernie Johnson Jr. returned to Inside the NBA while continuing chemotherapy for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

January 2015: Awarded Sports Emmy and Gave It To Stuart Scott's Daughters

In January 2015, Ernie Johnson Jr. won his third Sports Emmy for Best Studio Host and gave his award to the daughters of the late Stuart Scott.

November 10, 2016: Discussed 2016 U.S. Presidential Election

On November 10, 2016, Ernie Johnson Jr. discussed the 2016 U.S. presidential election on Inside the NBA and revealed that he wrote in his vote for Ohio governor John Kasich.