Updated Oct. 17, 2007

Rodney Watson is the dean of Missouri Valley Conference assistant coaches -- beginning his 20th season on the Southern Illinois staff. His energetic work behind the scenes has been essential to SIU's rise to national prominence. Whether he's on the road recruiting top prospects, preparing the scouting report and game plan for an upcoming opponent, or simply representing the program at a university function, Watson epitomizes the best of Saluki Basketball.

He has been the one constant as SIU has transitioned from head coach Bruce Weber to Matt Painter to Chris Lowery. During Watson's tenure, the Salukis have won 11 Missouri Valley Conference championships and qualified for nine NCAA Tournaments and five NITs. The Salukis have compiled a 399-205 record during Watson's 19 seasons, including 14 postseason appearances.

A native of Paris, Ill., Watson began his coaching career at Coulterville High School, where he guided the school to its first regional championship. He moved to Madison, Ill. in 1984, and led that school to a regional and sectional championship, advancing all the way to the high school Elite Eight.

Watson used his success at the high school level as a springboard to the college ranks. He coached two years at Nebraska-Omaha (1986-88) before joining Rich Herrin's staff at SIU in 1988.

Watson, 47, and his wife, Carol, have four children, Ashley (16), Zach (15) and twins Olivia and Blake (11).