Fred Hoiberg’s Historic Season with Nebraska Elevates Him to AP National Coach of the Year
Nebraska’s basketball program has reached unprecedented heights under coach Fred Hoiberg, culminating in a significant accolade. On Friday, Hoiberg was honored as The Associated Press National Coach of the Year, a testament to his transformative impact on the team.
The Huskers concluded their season with a remarkable 28-7 record, achieving their best performance yet. This included setting new school records for total victories and conference wins, alongside a historic 24-game winning streak. Notably, the team secured its first-ever NCAA tournament victories.
Hoiberg’s impressive achievements came with a diverse roster, featuring two walk-ons, a redshirt freshman, and a player who overcame a previous knee injury. Reflecting on the journey, Hoiberg shared with The Associated Press, “It took us some time to get here, but it was all about getting the right players in here, especially the ones that the fans could get behind.”
Despite predictions placing Nebraska 14th in the 18-team Big Ten, the team defied expectations, finishing in a tie for second place. Hoiberg discussed these achievements with college basketball reporter Andy Katz, stating, “For all the things we accomplished this year — top five ranking, 20 straight wins, 15 wins in league — you know, a lot of doubters. I think we accomplished a lot.”
This award marks Hoiberg as the first men’s basketball coach from Nebraska to receive it in the award’s 59-year history. He joins the ranks of former Husker women’s basketball coach Connie Yori, who was similarly recognized in 2010.
Prior to this national recognition, Hoiberg was also named Big Ten coach of the year by the league’s coaches. Over the past three seasons, he has led Nebraska to a record 72 wins, establishing a new benchmark with three consecutive 20-win seasons.
In acknowledgment of his outstanding contributions, the university recently extended Hoiberg’s contract, increasing his annual salary from $4.35 million to $5 million, securing his position through the 2031-2032 season. More details on the extension can be found here.
