A Strategic Addition for the Cyclones
Iowa State University has named Chuck Ruffing as its newest assistant coach for the 2026‑27 men’s basketball season, filling a vacancy left by the departures of J.R. Blount and Kyle Green.
Ruffing arrives with a résumé that includes a Region IV championship at Bryant & Stratton College and a stint at Western Illinois, where he helped guide the program to its most successful campaign in recent memory.
The hire is part of a broader reshaping of the Cyclones’ staff, with Tim Buckley and Allan Hanson also joining the bench this offseason.
Recruiting Ripple Effects
Ruffing’s background in Wisconsin, where he previously coached at West Bend East High School and led his team to a regional title, is expected to open new recruiting pipelines in the Badger State.
Beyond his on‑court achievements, Ruffing was recognized as the WBCA JUCO Coach of the Year and NJCAA Region IV Coach of the Year, and his Bryant & Stratton squad once set a school record with 114 points in a single game.
He also spent time on the Nike EYBL circuit with Team Herro, a program that has historically produced talent that Iowa State has successfully recruited.