Kearney, Neb. – Nebraska Kearney head men's basketball coach Marty Levinson announced today that Joel Hueser is joining the program as an assistant coach.

The Kearney State graduate and former Loper basketball player replaces Mitch Runco who returned to Omaha this spring after being a two-year staff member. Rob Fuller is the program's other assistant and about to begin year three.

"Joel is a home run hire for our program. Few people understand what it truly means to be part of Loper Basketball the way he does. Having grown up around his father, Jerry Hueser's program, and having worn a Blue and Gold jersey himself, Joel brings a deep-rooted connection and he welcome Joel and the entire Hueser family back to Loper Hoops." 

Hueser played from 1985-88, earning All-Central States Intercollegiate Conference (CSIC) as a senior and reaching the 1,000-career point mark. During this time, the Lopers made three trips to the NAIA National Tournament in Kansas City and had two 20-wins seasons. He also earned a B.A in Education and a Master's in Physical Education. 

"I've known Joel for over 20 years, and throughout that time we've often talked about how special being a Loper is to both of us. When the right opportunity presented itself, I knew immediately he was the perfect fit," said Levinson. "His experience speaks for itself, most notably in building the Papillion-La Vista South program from the ground up into a consistent title contender. That kind of sustained success is a testament to his leadership, vision, and ability to develop players and culture over time."

Hueser began his coaching career at Mankato (Kan.) High School as the boys' head varsity and junior high school coach. After one season, he returned to Nebraska and took over as the McCook H.S. boys' head varsity coach. Hueser led the Bison for 13 seasons, reaching the state tournament five times and finishing as the 2000 Class B runners up. In 2003, he moved onto Papillion-La Vista South where he led the Titans for 23 seasons. Also teaching in the Physical Education department, Hueser saw his team qualify for state six times, winning the Class A state in 2025 and finishing runners up this past winter.

"Joel brings a wealth of knowledge, a calm and steady presence, and a level of wisdom that will positively impact our program every single day. Beyond his coaching ability, he has strong ties to our Loper fan base and deep connections within the Nebraska coaching community, which will continue to strengthen our program's reach and relationships," said Levinson.

UNK was the fifth seed in the 2025 MIAA Tournament and increased its win total in 2026. The Lopers had three separate three game win streaks this year and went 8-5 at home.

"We have always shared a common mission of developing young men and now have the opportunity to do that together here at UNK, where it simply means more. We both believe Kearney and our university provide an exceptional environment for some of the best young men and players in Nebraska to grow as individuals, earn a quality education, and compete at a high level," said Levinson.

The Lopers have been going through post-season workouts and will meet again as a team this September.