If you’ve ever been to a Neumann University men’s basketball game, you have noticed his larger-than-life presence, expressive gestures, and his projected voice roaring through the building.
With an enthusiastic courtside demeanor that expresses his hunger for the game, Jim Rullo, 11th-year head coach and assistant athletic director, represents a legacy and commitment to nurturing both athletes and individuals.
Rullo has a very impressive record of 172-89 record with the all-time record in wins at Neumann University, not to mention a post season record of 20-9.
This success is no surprise. His family ties to the game constitute a basketball empire.
His father played in the NBA for the Philadelphia Warriors, and his mother was a three-time Catholic league winner at Hallahan High School.
“Basketball is part of the fiber of my family,” Rullo adds.
Rullo’s wife attended Drexel University and played basketball. Both his daughters play basketball at Cardinal O’Hara High School. In 2025 his oldest daughter will be extending the family tree as a collegiate athlete and as a Drexel Dragon like her dad before her.
Coach Rullo’s childhood and collegiate experiences with the sport led him to his coaching journey.
“I was fortunate enough to play basketball and baseball down at Drexel University,” he said. “I love the competition, but more importantly, I like the relationships and friendships that athletics gives you the opportunity to pursue.”
Before coaching at Neumann, Rullo started at Malvern Prep, Hobart College, and Drexel University. However, coaching at Neumann presented its own challenges and rewards.
“It’s obviously a smaller school,” he acknowledges. “It is a little bit more challenging but at the same time it’s still very rewarding because you’re providing that opportunity for student-athletes.”
Division III college athletes are true student athletes. “Academics take priority,” Rullo emphasized. “Our guys prepare both on and off the court to put their best foot forward.”
Joe Glass. the chaplain of the men’s team, very much appreciates Coach Rullo.
“I don’t think he realizes how good he is how special he is, and how blessed we are to have him here at Neumann,” he said.
Rullo finds comfort in the relationships forged with his players.
“The best part is just getting to meet young men who have a passion for the game of basketball,” he said.
That personal connection is important. The uncertainties surrounding transfers and NIL deals emphasize the importance of recruiting players for the right reasons.
In preparation for games and practices, Rullo focuses on instilling toughness and discipline in his players.
“Just be prepared for it and understand that we’re going to make mistakes,” he said. “But hopefully, the guys stay together and continue to play hard.”
You have to play hard to win. The first championship out of his three stands out as his favorite moment.
“It validated all the hard work,” he reminisced. “Changing the culture of the program and seeing the joy on the faces of our players—it was pretty rewarding.”
However, the significance of basketball goes beyond the court.
“Basketball is more than just a game,” said Rullo. ” I think it’s a sport in itself can bring a lot of people together that you will otherwise never meet so I think that that’s the pretty cool part about it.”
