February 18, 2016

CHAMPAIGN, Illinois – The Champaign Swarm have announced a new head coach to replace interim head coach Matt Neaville.  The Swarm’s new head coach is Daniel Ruffin, a 2007 graduate of Bradley University who led the Braves to an improbable Sweet 16 run in 2006.

Ruffin, a Peoria, Illinois native, led Peoria Central to a state championship in 2004.  He started 120 games at point guard for Bradley over the next four years, averaging 14.1 points and 5.8 assists per game as a senior in 2008.  Ruffin was named to the 2007 Missouri Valley Conference All-Defensive Team, and was honorable mention All-MVC in 2008.

Ruffin then played professionally for three seasons in Bloomington, Illinois, where he was named First Team all-Premier Basketball League in 2013, and directing a team that won two straight titles.

“I'm excited to have Daniel Ruffin as a part of our league,” said A.J. Guyton, director of basketball personnel for the Midwest Professional Basketball Association.  “He brings a winning mentality to an organization that is used to winning.  He's played at all levels, has won at all levels and has a great understanding of the pro game. I expect him to have a positive impact on the Champaign Swarm and the MPBA.” 

Ruffin replaces interim coach Matt Neaville, who took over on January 27 when John Spezia resigned. 

“We’d like to thank Matt for his service first as a player, and now as a coach during this transitional phase,” said Swarm general manager Kevin Applebee.  “We truly appreciate his professionalism and his dedication to the Swarm.”