In Episode 52 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with one of Midwest’s most respected college basketball coaches—Rodney Watson. From his small-town roots in Paris, Illinois, to more than two decades on the SIU sidelines under Rich Herrin, Bruce Weber, Matt Painter, and Chris Lowery, Watson helped guide the Salukis to 11 Missouri Valley Conference titles, nine NCAA Tournament bids, and a run that turned Carbondale into one of the nation’s toughest places to play.

In 2009, Watson took over at the University of Southern Indiana, where he became the winningest and longest-tenured coach in program history. Over 11 seasons, he led the Screaming Eagles to nine 20-win campaigns, multiple NCAA Division II Tournament appearances—including a Final Four run—and built a culture of toughness, accountability, and family.

In this episode, Coach Watson reflects on his coaching journey, from learning under legends to carving out his own legacy. He shares the lessons of resilience that carried him from farm life to the national stage, the mentors who shaped his philosophy, and the values of loyalty, faith, and community that have guided his career.

Don’t miss this conversation with a coaching legend whose impact has stretched from high school gyms to NCAA arenas—and whose story continues to inspire.