Ellsworth Community College men’s basketball has added two new assistant coaches. The Panthers have added Damian Archer and Drew Munley, giving Head Coach Bryan Bender’s staff a powerful mix of playing pedigree, coaching savvy, and cutting-edge analytics.

Archer arrives with a resume that spans the game at every level. A two-time SIAC Champion who played at Labette, Rowan College of Burlington County, and Miles College before coaching at Miles and helping the program finish No. 1 nationally in scoring defense. He then took his talents overseas, playing four professional seasons across Armenia, Georgia, Argentina, and Switzerland, earning International MVP honors twice along the way.

After a stint coaching high school ball in Maryland, Archer now brings his defensive expertise, pressing philosophy, and championship mindset to Iowa Falls.

“Damian is a winner,” Bender said. “He has won at every level he has played or coached at… adding another leadership-minded point guard mentality to our program is only going to continue to raise our standard.”

Munley joins the Panthers after starting his career at Syracuse University, where he served as a student data analyst for the Orange women’s basketball program where he helped prepare scouting reports during back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances. He also spent two seasons coaching on the Nike EYBL circuit with the Albany City Rocks, helping the program qualify for Peach Jam in 2025.

“Drew is one of the first coaches I have been around who truly eats, drinks and sleeps basketball,” Bender said. “His experience at the highest levels of the AAU circuit and in the ACC will pay tremendous dividends for our staff, our players and our program.”

Both coaches say they’re ready to get to work.

“I believe championships are built through discipline, toughness, preparation, and a commitment to doing the little things every single day,” Archer said.

“I’m excited to work with this group of men, continue learning and growing as a coach, and do everything I can to help our program reach the highest level possible,” Munley added.

https://www.eccathletics.com/sports/mbkb/2026-27/releases/20260908oa01zl