Shane Sweany, Southwestern Community College head men’s basketball coach, announced today Ian Russell, originally from Lancaster, California, will be the Spartans’ assistant coach for the team’s 2023-24 run.

Most recently, Russell was assistant coach at Montana State University-Northern in Havre, Montana. In this position, he aided in every aspect of the program from practice and game preparations to game plan, operation, recruitment, etc. He was the forwards coach for individuals and the team ended the season with a 19-11 record, finishing tied for second in the Frontier Conference. They had three wins against ranked opponents.

Prior to his stint at MSU-Northern, Russell was the assistant coach at Wenatchee Valley College in Wenatchee, Washington.

Sweany feels good to have his coaching staff in place as they prepare for the season.

“I am excited to have Ian join the staff and the program,” stated Sweany. “He brings experience from the NAIA and junior college level.”

Sweany explained Russell does a great job focusing on each individual player.

“Ian is great with player development on the court and is going to be a key asset toward helping our guys develop,” said Sweany. “I’m looking forward to a great season!”

Russell has a Bachelor of Arts degree in religious education from West Coast Baptist College in Lancaster, California. He joins Sweany and Men’s Basketball Graduate Assistant Will Chlebek on the sideline steering the Spartans. The Spartans first 2023-24 home match-up will be Friday, Nov. 3, vs Graceland University JV, at 7 p.m.