Sunshine State of Sports Podcast - Steve Ridder, Embry-Riddle Head Men's Basketball Coach
ORLANDO, Fla. – After 37 years leading the Embry-Riddle men's basketball program, legendary head coach Steve Ridder is preparing for one final season on the sidelines.
Ridder joins the latest episode of Sunshine State of Sports, the official podcast of the Sunshine State Conference, to reflect on nearly four decades of building the Eagles into a nationally respected program, the relationships that have defined his career and what lies ahead for the 2026-27 season.
Since taking over the program in 1989, Ridder has guided the Eagles through decades of success, conference championships and national postseason appearances. Along the way, he has helped shape the lives of generations of student-athletes while establishing a lasting legacy both on and off the court.
Now entering his 38th and final season, Ridder discusses his decision to retire, the memories that stand out from his remarkable career and the people who have helped make the journey special.
The conversation also looks ahead to the upcoming basketball season, as Ridder previews the Eagles' roster, discusses expectations for the 2026-27 campaign and shares what he hopes to accomplish in his final year leading the program.
This Saturday, October 24, Embry-Riddle will host NCAA DI Mercer in an exhibition game at the ICI Center in Daytona. Mercer’s head coach is Ryan Ridder, Steve’s son and former player at Embry-Riddle.
Beyond wins and championships, Ridder reflects on the evolution of college basketball, the challenges and rewards of coaching and the importance of developing student-athletes into successful individuals long after their playing careers have ended.
As one of the longest-tenured coaches in college basketball, Ridder has left an enduring mark on Embry-Riddle athletics and the college basketball landscape.
Listen to the latest episode of Sunshine State of Sports as Steve Ridder looks back on an extraordinary coaching career and ahead to one final season with the Eagles.
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Sunshine State of Sports features conversations with student-athletes, coaches and administrators from around the Sunshine State Conference, highlighting the people and stories that make the SSC one of the premier conferences in NCAA Division II.