Rusty Loyd joined the Illinois Tech coaching staff in 2006 after serving as the top assistant at the University of Chicago for four years. While at the University of Chicago, the Maroons saw a great deal of success both on the hardwood and in the classroom. The Maroons finished in the top half of the UAA conference all four years and had six players named all-conference.

A native of Columbus, Indiana, Loyd began his coaching career as an assistant at Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana, from 1998-2000. During his tenure, Earlham recorded its first winning conference record in 25 years. Loyd then moved on to Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois, where he enjoyed a two-year stint as a graduate assistant coach and helped the Flyers advance to the NCAA Division II round of sixteen with a 25-7 overall record.

During his college playing career at the University of Chicago (1994-98), Loyd established himself as one of the top point guards in school history. A three-time All-University Athletic Association selection, two-time All-Midwest Region pick, and 1998 Basketball Times All-American, Loyd finished his career as the school's all-time leader in assists (484) and steals (170). The Maroons won a pair of UAA championships and made two NCAA Division III Sweet Sixteen appearances while compiling a record of 76-29 (.724) during Loyd's tenure.

Loyd earned his bachelor's degree in psychology from Chicago in 1998 and his master's degree from the United States Sports Academy in sports management in 2008. Loyd resides in Chicago with his wife Kristen, daughter Mia Grace, and son Mason (who was born on November 29th, 2008).