Rio names Brandon Bias women’s basketball head coach
Rio Grande, Ohio – Brandon Bias, a longtime member of the RedStorm staff and one of the architects behind the program’s recent success, has been named the next head coach of Rio’s women’s basketball team.
Former Head Coach David Smalley announced his retirement today after 34 years with the program.
A native of Hewett, West Virginia, Bias steps into the role following more than a decade of contributions to the team’s rise as a conference and national contender.
“Working alongside Coach Smalley for 12 years has been an honor, and taking over a program he built is something I take a lot of pride in,” said Bias.
Bias began his coaching career at Buffalo High School (WV), where he served as head coach for four seasons. In 2011, he led the team to a 17–6 record and was named Kanawha Valley Coach of the Year by the Charleston Daily Mail.
Bias joined Rio in 2012, quickly making an impact by helping lead the team to a KIAC championship during the 2014–15 season. Following his first stint at Rio, Bias joined the staff at the University of Pikeville, where he contributed to a 26–9 record, the program’s first Fab Four appearance, and the development of multiple All-Conference and All-American players. He returned to Rio in 2018 as recruiting coordinator. Since then, he has played a central role in assembling some of the strongest recruiting classes in program history.
Rio has posted milestone seasons, including a program-record 32 wins and consecutive runs in the NAIA National Tournament. His recruits have earned numerous accolades, including 17 First-Team and 13 Second-Team All-Conference selections, six RSC Player of the Year honors, and six NAIA All-America recognitions.
Beyond recruiting, Bias has contributed significantly in scouting, player development, and daily operations, helping teams compile a 273–111 (.710) record during his assistant coaching career and secure multiple conference championships and national tournament appearances.
Bias earned his bachelor’s degree from West Virginia State University and a Master of Education from University of Rio Grande. Bias resides in Gallipolis with his son, Bennett.
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.
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