Jeff Ruland's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Jeffrey William Ruland is an American former professional basketball player and coach who made a name for himself in the NBA during the 1980s. Born on December 16, 1958, in Staten Island, New York, Ruland had a successful career as a player before transitioning to coaching later in life. He is known for his aggressive style of play and his impressive skills on the court, and he has left a lasting impact on the basketball world.

Ruland attended Iona College in New Rochelle, New York, where he played for the Iona Gaels from 1977 to 1980. He quickly made a name for himself as a dominant force on the court, averaging 22.2 points and 12.2 rebounds per game during his college career. Ruland was instrumental in leading the Gaels to the NCAA tournament in 1980, where they made it to the Sweet 16. His exceptional performance at Iona caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he was selected by the Golden State Warriors in the 2nd round of the 1980 NBA Draft.

Ruland was quickly traded to the Washington Bullets, where he began his professional playing career. During his time with the Bullets, Ruland proved himself to be a versatile and tenacious player, known for his strong rebounding and scoring abilities. He quickly became a fan favorite and was named an NBA All-Star in 1984 and 1985. Ruland played a key role in leading the Bullets to the playoffs multiple times during his tenure with the team, and he solidified his reputation as one of the league's top big men.

Injuries plagued Ruland's career, and he was forced to retire from professional basketball in 1991. However, his impact on the game was far from over. After retiring as a player, Ruland transitioned to coaching and joined the men's basketball staff at his alma mater, Iona College. He served as an assistant coach for the Gaels from 1999 to 2007, bringing his wealth of playing experience and basketball knowledge to the coaching staff. Ruland's coaching abilities were highly regarded, and he played an instrumental role in developing the talent of young players at Iona.

In 2007, Ruland returned to the professional ranks when he was named the head coach of the Albuquerque Thunderbirds, a team in the NBA Development League (now known as the G League). Ruland's coaching talents shone through as he guided the Thunderbirds to a successful season, earning a playoff berth and solidifying his reputation as a respected coach in the basketball community. His leadership and strategic acumen were evident on the sidelines, and he proved himself to be a valuable asset to the Thunderbirds organization.

After his successful stint with the Thunderbirds, Ruland continued to make an impact in the coaching world. He served as the head coach and general manager of the Reno Bighorns in the NBA Development League, where he continued to develop young talent and instill his knowledge of the game in the next generation of players. Ruland's coaching career was marked by his passion for the game and his dedication to helping players reach their full potential.

In addition to his coaching duties, Ruland has also worked as a basketball analyst, sharing his insights and expertise with fans and fellow basketball enthusiasts. His deep understanding of the game and his engaging personality made him a natural fit for the role, and he has continued to be a respected voice in the world of basketball. Ruland's impact on the sport extends far beyond his playing and coaching career, and he has left an indelible mark on the basketball community.

Overall, Jeff Ruland is a legendary figure in the world of basketball, known for his exceptional skills as a player and his influential coaching career. His contributions to the game have made a lasting impact, and his legacy continues to inspire fans, players, and coaches alike. Whether on the court or from the sidelines, Ruland's passion for the game and his dedication to excellence have solidified his status as a true basketball icon.