Earl Joseph Watson Jr., born on June 12, 1979, is a distinguished American basketball coach and former player, currently serving as an assistant coach for the San Diego Toreros. His basketball journey began at UCLA, where he made a significant impact as a four-year starter, earning all-conference honors during his senior year in the Pac-10, now known as the Pac-12.
In the 2001 NBA draft, Watson was selected by the Seattle SuperSonics as the thirty-ninth overall pick in the second round. Over the course of his thirteen-season career in the NBA, he showcased his skills with seven different teams, contributing to the game in various capacities.
Transitioning from player to coach in two thousand fourteen, Watson took on the role of head coach for the Phoenix Suns from two thousand sixteen to two thousand seventeen. His extensive experience as both a player and a coach has equipped him with a unique perspective on the game, making him a valuable asset in the world of basketball.