Central Michigan hires Ernie Ziegler

MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich., June 29 (UPI) -- UCLA assistant coach Ernie Zeigler Thursday was hired as the head men's basketball coach at Central Michigan.

At CMU, the 40-year-old Zeigler replaces Jay Smith, who resigned May 11 with one year left on his contract.

Ziegler spent the last five seasons as an assistant under Coach Ben Howland at both Pittsburgh (2002-03) and UCLA (2004-06).

"Ernie brings a wealth of experience to our program and the championship culture we are building at CMU," said athletic director Dave Heeke. "His roots are in Detroit and he has strong ties to the Midwest and the state of Michigan."

The Chippewas were 4-24 last seaon, including a 1-17 record in the Mid-American Conference.