"Sharing a Joyous Journey Through Broadcasting"
A Zoom Conversation with Dave Johnson, Senior Director of Broadcasting, Monumental Sports and Entertainment
Dave Johnson is a highly respected and award-winning sports broadcaster and reporter. His play-by-play work has informed and added enjoyment for viewing and listening audiences and created connections and loyalties across communities. He is treasured by fans who are drawn by his welcoming personality and positive outlook.
Since 1997, Dave has been the radio play-by-play announcer for the NBA Washington Wizards and is the longest serving play-by-play announcer for any major professional sports team in the D.C. region. He was the TV announcer for the D.C. United soccer team from 1996-2022. In 2024, D.C. United dedicated the “Dave Johnson Broadcast Booth” at Audi Field to recognize Dave’s longstanding work to support the team and advance the popularity of soccer. Dave also has earned regional Emmy Awards, been named D.C. Sportscaster of the Year, and in 2024 was inducted into the D.C. Sports Hall of Fame. Dave regularly appeared on television to present sports news on NBC 4, Fox 5, CSN, and Fox Soccer. On WTOP radio, he was Sports Director and was the voice area residents bonded with during their morning commutes at 15 and 45 minutes after the top of the hour to hear sports highlights just before “traffic and weather on the 8’s.”
In addition, Dave is an advocate in the fight to find a cure for multiple sclerosis. His mother died from the disease and in 2019 Dave was diagnosed with MS. “I believe I have multiple sclerosis now not because someone is mad at Dave Johnson but because somebody is challenging Dave Johnson to make a difference.” See this related article about Dave’s “most memorable game.” “That game that day crystallized how I choose to live my life—spending time in arenas trying to create moments of joy. I don’t discount any game, because I remember a game that turned out to be my mom’s last good day.”
Join us for a conversation to meet Dave Johnson and to learn about his life in broadcasting, the players and personalities he’s encountered during his career, the business of sports, the changing landscape of sports media, and his efforts to fight MS and inform the public.
Dave Johnson grew up in Anne Arundel County. He graduated from Towson University with a degree in mass communication. His catalogue of work also includes play-by-play for college sports and World Cup matches.
