Fred Hoiberg is a former professional basketball player and current coach who had a successful career both on and off the court. He played college basketball at Iowa State University, where he was a standout player and earned the nickname "The Mayor" for his popularity among fans.
After college, Hoiberg was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the 1995 NBA draft. He played for four different teams over the course of his 10-year NBA career, including the Pacers, Chicago Bulls, and Minnesota Timberwolves. Hoiberg was known for his three-point shooting ability and his versatility as a player, often playing multiple positions on the court.
After retiring from playing in 2006, Hoiberg transitioned into coaching. He started as an assistant coach for the Timberwolves before becoming the head coach at his alma mater, Iowa State, in 2010. Hoiberg quickly turned the Cyclones into a competitive team, leading them to four straight NCAA tournament appearances and two Big 12 tournament championships.
In 2015, Hoiberg left Iowa State to become the head coach of the Chicago Bulls. He coached the team for three seasons, leading them to the playoffs in his first year. However, the team struggled in his final season and Hoiberg was fired in December 2018.
Hoiberg was not out of work for long, as he was hired as the head coach at the University of Nebraska in March 2019. He has since been working to rebuild the Cornhuskers program and bring them back to prominence in the Big Ten conference.
Throughout his career, Hoiberg has been known for his basketball IQ and his ability to connect with players. He has also been praised for his work off the court, including his philanthropic efforts and his work to raise awareness for heart disease, which he has personally battled throughout his life.
Overall, Fred Hoiberg has had a successful basketball career as both a player and a coach. He has left his mark on the sport and continues to make an impact in the basketball world today.
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