The news that Coach Fred Hoiberg is leaving the Nebraska Cornhuskers to take up a highly lucrative contract with the Utah Jazz has set the sports world abuzz. As Hoiberg transitions from the NCAA to the NBA, it leaves a gaping hole in Nebraska’s program, sparking speculation about who could step into the leadership role. With Hoiberg’s high-profile departure, Nebraska now has the opportunity to hire a bold, transformative figure who can not only fill his shoes but elevate the Cornhuskers’ basketball program to new heights. Here are five bold candidates to replace Hoiberg.
1. Brad Underwood (Illinois Head Coach)
Underwood has rapidly turned Illinois into a powerhouse in the Big Ten since taking over in 2017. His no-nonsense approach, defensive intensity, and ability to develop young talent have made him one of the hottest coaching names in college basketball. Underwood’s familiarity with the Big Ten would allow for an immediate impact in recruiting and team development. While some may argue he’s built something special at Illinois, a record-breaking offer from Nebraska could tempt him to take on the challenge of transforming a program that has often underperformed despite potential.
2. Eric Musselman (Arkansas Head Coach)
Musselman’s coaching resume is packed with success stories, including a remarkable turnaround at Arkansas, where he took a struggling program to the NCAA Tournament and beyond. His up-tempo style of play and ability to recruit high-caliber talent have made him a fan favorite in Fayetteville. While some may consider him a long shot to leave a program on the rise, the possibility of a transformative opportunity at Nebraska could sway Musselman, especially with a lucrative contract on the table. His fire and energy could be exactly what Nebraska needs to rise to the top of the Big Ten.
3. Chris Beard (Former Texas Tech Coach)
Beard is a name that carries weight in college basketball. After leading Texas Tech to a national championship game, he’s proven that he can succeed on the big stage. Although Beard’s sudden departure from Texas Tech raised some eyebrows, his stock has remained high, and a fresh start at Nebraska could give him the opportunity to further his legacy. Known for his defensive-minded, gritty style of play, Beard would undoubtedly bring a hard-nosed culture to Nebraska that could quickly elevate the program in a competitive Big Ten.
4. Shaka Smart (Marquette Head Coach)
Smart’s pedigree is undeniable, especially after his success at VCU and his ability to revitalize the Marquette Golden Eagles. His emphasis on “Havoc,” an aggressive, pressure-filled defense, has been a staple of his coaching style, and Nebraska could benefit from such an approach. His recruiting ability and the success he’s had at Marquette indicate he’s a coach on the rise. A bold offer from Nebraska might tempt him to leave the Midwest for an even bigger challenge in a historically competitive conference like the Big Ten.
5. Mark Few (Gonzaga Head Coach)
Though Few has built one of the most dominant programs in college basketball at Gonzaga, the allure of a new challenge could be what propels him to Nebraska. Few has long been the subject of speculation regarding a move to a major conference, and while he has built an empire at Gonzaga, Nebraska’s lucrative offer could change his mind. His track record of developing talent and building a perennial powerhouse could provide the stability Nebraska needs to compete with the nation’s best. Few’s departure would be controversial, to say the least, but the opportunity to build another juggernaut in the Big Ten might be too good to pass up.
In conclusion, Fred Hoiberg’s departure leaves Nebraska with the daunting task of finding a successor who can bring success and a renewed energy to a program in need of revival. While these candidates all bring distinct coaching styles and backgrounds, the common thread among them is their ability to transform programs and compete at the highest levels. Nebraska’s decision will be bold, and it could set the stage for the next great era in Cornhusker basketball. Whether any of these coaches make the jump to Lincoln or not remains to be seen, but their candidacies bring intrigue, excitement, and controversy to the discussion.
