He played basketball at Earl Warren High School in Downey, California.

Ruffner then landed with the Baltimore Claws but the team folded after a few preseason exhibition games.

Ruffner concluded his professional career in the final season before the ABA–NBA merger by appearing in two games for the Spirits of St. Louis during the 1975–76 campaign.

At the conclusion of his basketball career, Ruffner and his family made Provo, Utah their permanent home.

He continued to share his knowledge and expertise of the game through color commentary on KSL Radio which he did for 21 years.