Johnny Buford was born in Huntsville and attributes his many successes to his Grandfather, Roy Craig; his parents, Bill and Doris; his High School Coach, Gilmer Ellis; and his brother, Bobby, who is also a Hall of Fame inductee. John played at Owens Cross Roads Junior High, New Hope High School and David Lipscomb University where he received his degree in 1973. While at New Hope High School, John was named to the 1969 Madison County All Tournament Team, The Huntsville News and The Huntsville Times All County Teams, The Region 8 All-District Team and The Huntsville Times I 969, Dream Team. He was also listed as an Honorable Mention All State player in 1969. At David Lipscomb, John played all four years and was named as Captain of the Team his senior year.