Fred Hoiberg adds on Ernie Ziegler to Husker hoops coaching staff

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Husker men’s basketball head coach Fred Hoiberg has added another piece to his coaching staff.

Hoiberg announced Wednesday that Ernie Zeigler would join the staff for the upcoming season.

Zeigler’s experience includes leading the basketball program as head coach at Central Michigan from 2007 to 2012.

During his tenure at Central Michigan, the Chippewas made it to the MAC Tournament quarterfinals in four of his six seasons.

Zeigler also spent time as an assistant coach at Mississippi State, Detroit, UCLA, Pittsburgh, Bowling Green and Kansas State.

“When I began looking at candidates, Ernie checked all the boxes that we were looking for,” Hoiberg said in a press release. “He has a proven track record in player development and has helped build several successful programs in power conferences. He also has the experience of running his own program for several years. Ernie is also an outstanding recruiter who has extensive ties in the Big Ten region. I think he is a good fit with staff we have in place, and I am excited to have him join our program.”

During the offseason, the Huskers went separate ways with coaches Doc Sadler, Matt Abdelmassih and Armon Gates.

In July, Hoiberg announced that Emmanuel Tommy would join the program as the director of player development.

The Huskers will open their season against Chadron State on Oct. 23 at Pinnacle Bank Arena.