Speedy Returns Home
Alum and Harlem Globetrotter
Darnell“ Speedy” Artis’ 16 Named Men’ s Basketball Head Coach
A celebrated member of the 2015-2016 championship squad and one of the most recognizable faces of GMercyU Athletics, Darnell“ Speedy” Artis’ 16 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 worldfamous Harlem Globetrotters. Artis is also an alum of La Salle College High School in Wyndmoor, Pa. In 2023, Artis was inducted into the GMercyU Athletics Hall of Fame.
“ 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’ 04.“ We are thrilled to welcome him back in this new capacity and are confident he will bring energy, talent, and heart to our program.”
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.
many more. The league has also been featured on the Emmy-nominated NBC TV series Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward.
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
“ 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,” said Artis.
Artis’ commitment to uplifting others exemplifies the Mercy mission at the heart of GMercyU. His return this year marked not just a new era for the Men’ s Basketball team, but a renewed connection between athletics, service, and community empowerment.
Cheer on Head Coach Darnell Artis’ 16 and the Men’ s Basketball team at an upcoming home game! Scan the QR code for the schedule.
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