Former Virginia Tech basketball coach James Johnson was fired by the Hokies 9 years ago following a 9-22 season. Johnson was the head coach in Blacksburg for 2 seasons after being an assistant for 5 seasons prior to that. However, Johnson finished his brief head coaching career with a 22-41 final record.

After 9 years away from Blacksburg, Johnson is heading back to Virginia Tech. But not with the basketball program. With the football program.

Virginia Tech hired Johnson Tuesday to be its next director of high school relations, playing an important role in recruiting under head coach Brent Pry.

Some may wonder why Johnson would want to return to Virginia Tech after being fired. He spoke with Roanoke.com about his decision Tuesday:

“I’ve still got a special place in my heart for Virginia Tech — the university, all the athletic programs, the fans,” said Johnson. “[Getting fired], it’s part of the business.”