Michael Watson Inducted to Missouri Sports Hall of Fame
4/18/2023 10:45:00 AM | Men's Basketball
The former Roo great will be officially enshrined this Sunday, April 23
One of the most storied players in Kansas City Men's Basketball history, Michael Watson was recently announced to the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2023. Watson will officially be inducted to the Hall of Fame on April 23 at Municipal Auditorium.
"This means everything to me," Watson said. "To be honored by the state is exceptional, and it still hasn't quite set in. It's a total honor."
After graduating from Kansas City's Central High School, Watson cemented his name into the Kansas City record books throughout his 2000-03 collegiate career. He still stands as the program's all-time leading scorers, pouring in 2,488 points. In addition, Watson claimed program records for points scored in a single game (54 vs. ORU, 2/22/03), career three-pointers (391), games started (114) and double-figure scoring games (109). He is also in the top-ten in program history in career assists (357), steals (173) and free throws made (397).
Watson was noticed beyond Kansas City, earning national recognition throughout his career. He was a three-time First Team All-Mid-Continent Conference (now known as the Summit League) honoree and joined Tony Dumas as the only Roos in program history to twice be selected to the NABC All-District Second Team.Â
"Michael Watson's induction to the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame is a true testament to his legacy and impact within our Athletics Department, campus community and Kansas City at large," Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Dr. Brandon Martin said. "His journey and personal narrative is a brilliant example of comprehensive excellence. This is undoubtedly a win for Michael and the entire Roo family."
Beyond his Kansas City career, Watson spent time within the Boston Celtics' organization, signing as a free agent in 2004. He also played professional ball internationally for eight seasons, making stops in Poland, Turkey, Italy, France and his native Puerto Rico.
Now, Watson has settled back down in Kansas City, working as a non-profit executive director and color commentating the Roos' men's basketball games. He also leads his own youth sports organization, 'MENTALITY by Michael Watson.' Founded in 2017, 'MENTALITY' aims to give the next generation of athletes a world class sporting experience.
When officially inducted on April 23, Watson will become the first former Kansas City Roo student-athlete to join the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. No stranger to rare accomplishments and honors, his #22 jersey was officially retired by the athletic department in 2019. He joined volleyball's Catalina Suarez-Moss and fellow basketball start Ronnie Schmitz as the only Roos to have their numbers retired.
For more information on Watson's induction and the upcoming enshrinement ceremony, visit the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame's official website.
