April 22, 2008

CARBONDALE, Ill. - Southern Illinois University announced Tuesday that the dean of Missouri Valley Conference assistant coaches -- Rodney Watson -- has been promoted to men's basketball associate head coach.

Watson recently completed his 20th season as an assistant on the Saluki basketball staff. His energetic work behind the scenes has been essential to SIU's rise to national prominence, according to head coach Chris Lowery.

"Rodney's basketball insight and his ability to relate to the players are a huge asset to our program," Lowery said. "People forget that Bruce Weber was an assistant coach for 19 years before he became a head coach. Guys who didn't play in college get overlooked sometimes, but there's no doubt in my mind that Rodney is one of the best basketball coaches in America, and we're fortunate to have him."

Watson has been the one constant as SIU has transitioned head coaches from Rich Herrin to Weber to Matt Painter to Lowery during the last 10 years.

"I'm grateful for this opportunity and appreciate the confidence Coach Lowery has in me," Watson said. "I look forward to the added responsibility."

During Watson's tenure, the Salukis have won 11 Missouri Valley Conference championships and qualified for nine NCAA Tournaments and six NITs. The Salukis have compiled a 417-220 record during Watson's 20 seasons, including 15 postseason appearances.