VERMILLION, S.D. — The University of South Dakota has named Nebraska assistant Craig Smith as its new head men’s basketball coach.

USD Athletic Director David Herbster announced the hiring Sunday night. The Coyotes scheduled a Monday afternoon news conference to introduce Smith, a Stephen, Minn., native and University of North Dakota alumnus

Smith has been a longtime assistant for Cornhuskers coach Tim Miles, coaching with him at Mayville State, North Dakota State and Colorado State. He also has served as an assistant at Northern State in South Dakota and Minot State in North Dakota.

Smith was the head coach at Mayville State in North Dakota from 2004-07. He won NAIA coach of the year honors in 2007 after leading the Comets to the NAIA Division II national championship game.

Smith is replacing Dave Boots, who retired from USD last September after 25 years. Boots was the most successful coach in program history, with a 503-235 record.

The Coyotes finished this season 12-18, under interim coach Joey James.

Nebraska’s season ended Friday with a 74-60 loss to Baylor in the team’s opening game in the NCAA Tournament.