Nebraska basketball head coach Fred Hoiberg found himself in a tense situation following the Huskers' recent loss to Iowa. As he was leaving the court, an Iowa fan got too close with a camera, prompting Hoiberg to swat it away. While some fans understood his reaction, it sparked a bit of controversy.
In a press conference on Friday, ahead of Nebraska's game against Penn State, Hoiberg explained his actions, emphasizing the critical role his pacemaker plays in his life. "I am 100% reliant on a pacemaker," he stated, recalling a crucial conversation with his doctor that keeps the potential dangers at the forefront of his mind. Even if the risk seems minimal, it's a constant concern for him.
Hoiberg reached out to the Iowa staff member involved, offering a personal apology. The staffer, understanding the situation, reassured Hoiberg that he would have reacted similarly.
Hoiberg clarified, "I'm not against court storms. But you can't go into the handshake line and put players and coaches in danger."
The coach elaborated on the incident, expressing his awareness of the risks associated with his pacemaker. "If a cell phone can set it off, if anything happens, I'm done," he explained. Although the chances are slim, Hoiberg is acutely aware of the possibilities, especially given his history with heart issues.
Acknowledging that he inadvertently struck an Iowa staffer, Hoiberg made sure to apologize both on the spot and in a follow-up conversation. The staffer responded with understanding, saying, "Coach, it's all good. I would have done the same thing."
With the situation addressed, Hoiberg and the Huskers are now focused on their upcoming challenges, including the Big Ten Tournament. It's time for Nebraska to move forward, concentrating on their performance on the court.