Keith Pickens is an Assistant Coach at SEMO since 2018 and joined Rising Coaches in 2020. Prior to SEMO Pickens spent 8 years at Missouri State as he went from player, to GA, to assistant coach. Get to know Keith Pickens by reading some of the interview questions we had the opportunity to collect.
How did you first get into coaching? What has been the driver that has kept you in coaching?
I was introduced to coach from my former Head Coach Paul Lusk. What drives me in coaching is being able to be a part in young men living out their dreams and the relationships formed.
Who has been your biggest influence in your coaching career? Why?
My biggest influence in coaching has been Cuonzo Martin and Paul Lusk
What is your favorite team meal?
Favorite team meal would have to be Steak, mashed potatoes and asparagus.
What has been your greatest lesson learned in coaching so far?
My greatest lesson is coaching is to not over react too quickly. Each problem is one problem don’t let them compound.
What has been your most memorable win?
My most memorable win was watching Chris Harris sink a game winning three at the buzzer to defeat PFW.
Tell us a recent book/podcast/movie that has left you inspired as a coach.
Two recent books I’ve read are ‘I came as a shadow’ and ‘The Alchemist’
Fun Fact: Tell us something about yourself that people would be surprised to know about you.
I’m secretly a chef! I enjoy cooking when I have the time.
As a member, what has been the most rewarding aspect/ favorite memory of Rising Coaches for you?
Connecting with different coaches at all different levels.
