Gwynedd Valley, Pa. - (6/18/2025) – Gwynedd Mercy University has named GMercyU Hall of Famer and distinguished alumnus Darnell "Speedy" Artis '16 as the new Head Coach of the Men's Basketball team. A celebrated member of the 2015-2016 championship squad and one of the most recognizable faces of GMercyU Athletics, Artis brings both professional experience and a deep commitment to the University's Mercy values. After his collegiate success, Artis went on to captivate global audiences as a standout member of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters. Artis is also an alum of La Salle College High School in Wyndmoor, Pa.

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"Darnell has always been more than just a great player. He is an inspiring leader, a role model in his community, and a proud GMercyU alum," said Athletic Director Keith Mondillo. "We are thrilled to welcome him back in this new capacity and are confident he will bring energy, talent, and heart to our program."

Artis has made recent headlines for more than just his skills on the court. In 2024, The Philadelphia Inquirer profiled his work in East Germantown, where he co-founded the UnderDawgs summer basketball league at the Lonnie Young Recreation Center. Since 2018, the league has offered local youth a positive outlet while highlighting community achievement, including special guest appearances by Hip Hop phenomenon Tierra Whack, Boots Ennis and Philadelphia Councilman Isaiah Thomas amongst many more. The league has also been featured on the Emmy-nominated NBC TV series Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward.

"GMercyU took a chance on me as an 18 year old when not many noticed me. It has been a place that has built me up in every way possible both on and off the court," said Artis. "When I got the call that Coach Baron was moving on it felt like a call from God that it was time to come back home and pour back into a place that poured so much into me. I love being a Griffin. I'm a Griffin for life. I would say I can't wait to start this chapter of our journey together but the work has already started and I'm looking forward to the challenge! One word. Culture." 
Artis' commitment to uplifting others exemplifies the Mercy mission at the heart of GMercyU. His return marks not just a new era for the Men's Basketball team, but a renewed connection between athletics, service, and community empowerment.



About Gwynedd Mercy University
Gwynedd Mercy University prepares students to become top professionals in the fields of nursing and other health professions, education, business, and the arts and sciences. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1948, Gwynedd Mercy University offers more than 70 bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and associate degree programs. The University's campus is situated on 145 private acres on Sumneytown Pike between routes 309 and 202 in Gwynedd Valley, Montgomery County. The University also offers online/accelerated undergraduate and graduate programs for working professionals and career-changers. Learn more at gmercyu.edu, or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

GMercyU Media Contacts:
Madison Buiting
215-534-9272
gwyneddmercy@gregoryfca.com
 
Kirsten Swanson
267-858-0092
swanson.k@gmercyu.edu