David Smalley retiring as Rio women’s basketball coach after 34 years

Rio Grande – It is often said that every good story must come to an end. At Rio, however, the story of Coach David Smalley and the impact he has had on his players, staff, students, coworkers, and community over his 34-year career will continue to live on.

Smalley officially announced his retirement today as Head Coach of the University of Rio Grande’s women’s basketball team.

A 1982 Rio graduate, Smalley began his coaching career as the varsity girls’ head coach at Warren High School in Vincent, Ohio. He later served as a graduate assistant at Bowling Green State University and as an assistant coach at Morehead State University before returning to Rio.

His storied career at Rio began in 1992. Throughout his tenure, Smalley accumulated a record of 729-348 (.676), coached in 13 national tournaments, earned 10 Conference Coach of the Year honors, and won multiple regular season and tournament conference titles. His 729 victories place him among the top 50 all-time in women’s college basketball history.

The Rio Grande women’s basketball program ranks sixth all-time in program victories, and his leadership played a central role in building that tradition. Known for a fast-paced and high-scoring style of play, his teams consistently ranked among the NAIA’s national leaders in scoring.

“Coach Smalley’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary era for Rio women’s basketball. For 34 years, Dave poured his energy, passion, and unwavering dedication into this program, shaping it into one of the most respected in the NAIA and the River States Conference,” said Jeff Lanham, Rio’s Athletic Director. 

“His commitment to our student-athletes, both on and off the court, has left a legacy that will be felt for generations. We are deeply grateful for everything he has given to the University of Rio Grande, and we celebrate a career defined by enthusiasm and a genuine love for the game.”

Smalley is a member of Rio’s Athletic Hall of Fame as a coach and Peebles High School Athletic Hall of Fame as a player. 

As he steps away from the sidelines, Smalley leaves behind an impact on the University of Rio Grande and on women’s basketball that cannot be measured. His legacy reflects leadership, loyalty, and a commitment to building something special. That standard will continue to guide the RedStorm program for years to come.

About University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College

Nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, Rio stands as a beacon of accessible and affordable education. Our main campus is a haven for learning, innovation, and technology, offering students the security and charm of a small-town environment. With more than 60 diverse programs to choose from, Rio empowers students to pursue associate, bachelor, and master degrees, along with certificate programs. Our commitment extends to four regional centers—Jackson, McArthur, Meigs, and Pike—dedicated to enriching their communities by providing quality education and fostering a robust workforce. At the core of our institution are passionate faculty members who serve as both educators and mentors, devoted to the academic and personal growth of each student. Rio's academically challenging programs are complemented by a wealth of extracurricular opportunities, creating a holistic educational experience.