Kudos to Jamie Pollard. Iowa State got this one right.
The Cyclone athletic department had to open up its checkbook but did what had to be done – that’s lock head basketball coach Fred Hoiberg up to a new 10-year, $20 million contract. According to a university press release, the two parties along with Iowa State President Steven Leath, came to an agreement on Thursday night.
“When I returned to the University three seasons ago, it was a dream come true,” Hoiberg said in the release. “The progress that we have made so far has been very rewarding, but there is more work ahead. I sincerely appreciate the support that President Leath and Jamie (Pollard) have given me. Ames is my home and Hilton Coliseum has given me countless memories as both a player and coach. I look forward to continue leading a program that Cyclone fans can be proud of.”
“I am very excited that we were able to put together a financial package that allows Fred to remain an integral part of our Cyclone family,” Pollard said. “Nobody is better suited to be our head men’s basketball coach and we wanted to show he and his family, along with all Cyclone fans, that we are committed to keeping him in Ames for the long term.”
According to the release, "several universities and NBA teams made inquiries to him about coaching their teams."
Not surprisingly, "The Mayor" chose Iowa State.
