Sweet 16 Birthday Treat: Coach’s Sons Star in Win

Sweet 16 Birthday Treat: Coach’s Sons Star in Win

March Madness delivered a special birthday gift for Coach Fred Hoiberg’s twin sons. His Iowa State Cyclones punched their ticket to the Sweet 16 yesterday, and the celebration was extra sweet because it was his sons’ birthday. Coach Hoiberg shared a heartwarming moment, joking that the team’s advancement was their present.

A Birthday to Remember

During the game, there was a brief moment when Coach Hoiberg took Sam, one of his twin sons, out of the game. He gave Sam a dap, and Sam slapped him on the back. It was a small moment that brought a chuckle, highlighting the unique father-son dynamic on the court. “Well, it was pretty special last night,” Coach Hoiberg said when asked about the moment. “It’s his it’s he and his identical twin brother who joined our staff this year, Charlie. It was their birthday yesterday.”

Coach’s Present: A Sweet 16 Berth

Coach Hoiberg playfully told his sons, “No, I’m not buying you anything. This is your present here.” The team’s impressive win and trip to the Sweet 16 served as the ultimate birthday celebration for Charlie and Sam. This victory is more than just a win; it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team, with a special nod to the Hoiberg twins.

Sam’s Journey to Leadership

Sam Hoiberg has been a significant part of the team’s turnaround this season. “He’s just been awesome,” Coach Hoiberg explained. “He saw this thing when it was at its lowest point and he’s really been instrumental in helping get this thing turned around with building chemistry.” Sam’s role goes beyond the court; he actively brings the guys together off the court. This builds a genuine care among teammates, which Coach Hoiberg believes leads to better performance. “You know, you’re going to go out there, I think, and play better for them,” he stated.

From Walk-On to Key Player

Sam’s path to becoming a leader wasn’t straightforward. He navigated his senior year during COVID, missing out on crucial evaluations and potential offers. He decided to walk on to the team, hoping to see where things might lead. “He had a couple elite camps that he went to out the east coast. Uh I think was about to get an offer, but then players took advantage of their co year. Uh and he just wanted to come and walk on and kind of see where it went,” Coach Hoiberg recalled.

Seizing the Opportunity

Two season-ending injuries three years ago opened the door for Sam. These setbacks gave him the opportunity he needed to step up and prove himself. “And that’s what it’s all about. You know, that’s really what my career was defined on. I took advantage of opportunity when it presented itself and Sam is the perfect example of that,” Coach Hoiberg said. Sam and Jammarcus Lawrence became key players that year, stepping into the rotation and making a difference. They have been vital to the team’s success ever since.

“He’s just been awesome. You know, he saw this thing when it was at its lowest point and he’s really been instrumental in helping get this thing turned around with building chemistry.” – Fred Hoiberg on his son, Sam

Looking Ahead

With the Sweet 16 now in sight, the Iowa State Cyclones are riding a wave of momentum. The team’s chemistry, partly built by Sam’s efforts, is evident on the court. The Hoiberg twins’ contributions, both on and off the court, have been invaluable. As they continue their tournament run, the bond between father and coach, and father and son, will undoubtedly be a driving force.

Source: Hoiberg's birthday message for his twin sons after advancing to the Sweet 16 😂 (YouTube)