Fred Hoiberg: From Ames Legend to Coaching Legacy – A Look Back on His Retirement Anniversary
AMES, Iowa (April 17, 2025) – On this day 19 years ago, Iowa State basketball legend Fred Hoiberg officially retired from professional basketball, closing a remarkable chapter as a player and opening a new era as one of college basketball’s most respected coaches. Known affectionately as “The Mayor,” Hoiberg remains a beloved figure across Iowa, from his roots at Ames High School to his NBA career and coaching milestones.
Hoiberg first captured the hearts of Iowans as a standout high school athlete. A dual-sport star, he started at quarterback for the Ames High School football team and captained the basketball team, leading the Little Cyclones to a state championship in 1991. That same year, he earned the prestigious “Iowa Mr. Basketball” title, solidifying his place among the state’s elite athletes.
Choosing to stay close to home, Hoiberg signed with Iowa State University, where he became a household name. Playing three seasons under legendary coach Johnny Orr and one under Tim Floyd, Hoiberg’s all-around talent and clutch performances earned him a First-Team All-Big Eight selection in 1995. His name is etched across the Cyclones’ record books, ranking among the top seven in nearly every major statistical category. In recognition of his lasting impact, Iowa State retired his jersey number 32—a rare honor and a testament to his enduring legacy.
Nicknamed “The Mayor” after receiving write-in votes during the 1993 Ames mayoral election, Hoiberg became a symbol of Cyclone pride both on and off the court.
In 1995, Hoiberg was selected 52nd overall in the NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers, beginning a 10-year professional career. He spent four seasons in Indiana before joining the Chicago Bulls in 1999—reuniting with former ISU coach Tim Floyd. In 2003, he signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he became a fan favorite for his sharp shooting and veteran leadership. Unfortunately, Hoiberg’s playing career was cut short due to a heart condition, and he announced his retirement on April 17, 2006, following heart surgery.
But retirement from playing didn’t keep Hoiberg away from the game for long. In April 2010, Iowa State University announced that Hoiberg would return to coach the men’s basketball team. In doing so, he became the 19th head coach in program history. His impact was immediate. In just his second season, Hoiberg led the Cyclones to a 23–11 record and their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2005.
Under his leadership, Iowa State returned to national relevance. Known for his player-friendly system and ability to revive transfers’ careers, Hoiberg achieved 100 wins faster than any coach in Cyclone history—reaching the milestone in just 148 games. In 2015, his coaching success led him back to the NBA, this time as head coach of the Chicago Bulls.
Today, Hoiberg is the head coach at the University of Nebraska, continuing his career on the sidelines. Yet, his ties to Ames and Iowa State remain unbreakable. Whether as a star athlete, a trusted leader, or a community icon, Fred Hoiberg’s legacy continues to inspire generations of Iowans.
As we mark the anniversary of his retirement, fans, former teammates, and players alike reflect on the career of a man who truly lived the dream—homegrown, hardworking, and forever a Cyclone.
