[1] Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Joseph moved to Canada in the 1970s, at age 12, settling in Scarborough, Ontario.
Toronto Raptors broadcaster Paul Jones faced Joseph in high school, describing him as "a smart player, a good defensive player, a scorer," also stating "As good as Cory and Devoe are, I'm not sure they could have beaten their dad [in high school].
"[2] Joseph attended the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, where he led the Trojans to the 1981–82 CCAA national championship, for which he was named MVP and Canadian College Player of the Year.
[2] Deciding to pursue a coaching career, he earned a degree in sports management at the University of Guelph.
[4] From 1987–1989, Joseph was the head coach at Centennial College, leading the Colts to an OCAA silver medal in 1988.
[8] Despite finishing in last place, the team won a wild card game and advanced to the playoffs.