Rodney Crawford has been hired as an assistant coach for Marquette Men's Basketball, announced by head coach Shaka Smart on May 12th. Crawford brings over 15 years of coaching experience, previously serving at South Alabama as an associate head coach and head coach. His notable achievements include guiding South Alabama to a 21-12 season and a Sun Belt Conference title, demonstrating an ability to elevate team performance.

By the Numbers
  • Crawford contributed to South Alabama's 21-12 record and NIT appearance in 2024-25.
  • The team ranked in the top-20 nationally for field-goal percentage defense at .384 and scoring defense at 64.3 points per game.
Yes, But

While Crawford's record shows success, questions remain about his ability to transition to a high-pressure environment at Marquette, which competes in a tougher league and has higher expectations.

State of Play
  • Crawford joins Marquette's coaching staff alongside former FIU head coach Jeremy Ballard.
  • The team is looking to build on its recent successes and improve its defensive strategies with Crawford’s expertise.
What's Next

Crawford will aim to integrate his successful defensive techniques into Marquette's program, preparing for the upcoming season while fostering a competitive atmosphere among players.

Bottom Line

Rodney Crawford's hiring signals Marquette's commitment to enhancing its coaching staff and competitiveness, with an emphasis on defensive prowess and player development as key areas for growth this season.