Keon Johnson, Webb Class of 2020 and current starting guard for the Brooklyn Nets, returned to campus on February 25, 2025, for the historic retirement of his high school jersey. This is the first basketball jersey retirement in the 155-year history of The Webb School.
Students, faculty, alumni, media, Nets representatives, and Keon's relatives and friends gathered in Barton Athletic Center for the ceremony to honor Keon's impact on Webb Athletics.
Current Webb assistant athletic director and assistant boys' basketball coach James Garcia shared, "Your jersey [banner] will hang — no Webb varsity boys' basketball player will ever wear it again. Number 23 will be retired."
Head of School Ken Cheeseman began the ceremony by congratulating Keon for all he has accomplished, with a special word of appreciation and honor given to Keon's mother and late father. "Conswella, on behalf of all who are here and many who could not make it here today, we want to say humbly, thank you," shared Cheeseman.
"You gave The Webb School a great gift when you and Keith enrolled Keon in Webb. You gave us a great gift when you enrolled Cora and Kegan as well. So, thank you for your support and partnership with so many of us here at Webb. This day would not be possible without you," he continued.
Other speakers at the ceremony included faculty member Jeff Mitchell who coached boys' varsity basketball during Keon's tenure, current athletic director Jena Jones, faculty member Mallory Garcia, and a video greeting from Webb's former athletic director Scott Dorsett.
Keon Johnson stood next to the lit-up "#23" marquee sign, sharing from his heart about his accomplishments and his gratitude for the foundation he received at The Webb School. "As I look at where I stand today in my fourth year in the NBA, I can only look back and thank The Webb School for preparing me for what is to be ahead."
Johnson continued, "The journey of getting to where I am today wasn't easy, but Webb taught me how to work effectively, work tirelessly, and at the same time give it my all."
After the celebration, Keon returned to his team to continue his valuable contributions to the Brooklyn Nets organization. We asked him amidst all the accolades and honors he has received if there was any box he still hopes to check in the future. Without flinching, Keon replied, "Finishing my college education."