University of Sioux Falls Athletics

Justin Heckenlaible is in his fifth year as assistant coach for the USF Men's Basketball team. In 2022-23, he assisted the Cougars to a 19-11 overall record and Co-Division Champions with a 13-9 record in NSIC play. Prior to USF he served as a basketball skills trainer with Warwick Workouts here in Sioux Falls, SD since 2016. 

Justin Heckenlaible completed his fourth season as assistant coach in 2026, helping guide the Cougars to a 15-15 record (11-11 NSIC) while averaging 85.5 points per game. He helped mentor Brogan Madson to NSIC Newcomer of the Year and First-Team honors, as well as forward Kyle Ingwerson to Second-Team accolades. Heckenlaible also supported the team's strong academic efforts, which yielded two NSIC Team of Excellence honors, two NSIC All-Academic selections, four CSC Academic All-District awards, and a CorTrust Scholar-Athlete designation for Taylen Ashley.

Heckenlaible served as the Head Men's Basketball Coach at Minnesota West Community & Technical College from 2002-2016. He was voted MCAC (Minnesota College Athletic Conference) Coach of the Year in 2012 and 2014.

Prior to Minnesota West, Heckenlaible served as an assistant coach at Augustana University from 1999-2002. Before that he served as an assistant at Dakota State University from 1997-1999.

Heckenlaible, as an undergraduate, played basketball and baseball at Dakota State University. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in computer and business education in 1996. He received his master's in athletic administration from the University of South Dakota in 2002.

Heckenlaible and his wife, Heidi, have one son, Trey.

Updated: 6/2026