Hughes also worked in NBA scouting and basketball operations with the Kings, Atlanta Hawks and Orlando Magic.

When Hughes left to be an assistant at Nebraska, he was replaced by Lute Olson, in his first collegiate job.

[5][6] Replacing Frank Truitt at Kent State University in 1974, Hughes' teams went 6–20, 12–14 and 8–19 over the next three seasons.

Hughes was hired by the Sky mid-season when Coach Bill Klukas was fired after a 3–17 start.

[11][12][13] In 1992–1993, Hughes was hired to serve as an assistant coach to Jerry Tarkanian with the San Antonio Spurs.