Nebraska Coach Hoiberg Cites Pacemaker for Swiping at Fan's Phone

Hoiberg says he reacted to protect his medical device during court-storming incident.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 2:27am

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Nebraska basketball coach Fred Hoiberg said his reaction to swipe at a fan's phone during a court-storming incident was due to his reliance on a pacemaker, which he said can be affected by close contact with cell phones. Hoiberg apologized to the Iowa staff member he accidentally struck and said he appreciates Iowa's statement acknowledging the need to review security procedures.

Why it matters

Hoiberg's explanation highlights the unique medical considerations and safety concerns that coaches and players can face during emotional postgame situations, especially when fans rush the court. The incident raises questions about how universities can better protect players, coaches, and staff during these types of events.

The details

Videos showed Hoiberg making a swiping motion at a person pointing a camera toward him during the handshake line after Nebraska's loss to Iowa on Wednesday. Hoiberg said he fully relies on a pacemaker and was concerned that close contact with the cell phone could interfere with the heart device. He apologized to the Iowa staff member he accidentally struck and said the staff member was understanding.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday, February 19, 2026 after Nebraska's loss to Iowa.
  • Hoiberg addressed the situation in a press conference on Friday, February 21, 2026.

The players

Fred Hoiberg

The head coach of the Nebraska men's basketball team, who has a pacemaker and was concerned about the potential impact of a fan's cell phone during a court-storming incident.

Iowa

The opposing team whose fans rushed the court after defeating Nebraska, leading to the incident with Hoiberg.

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What they’re saying

“I am 100% reliant on a pacemaker. I'll never forget a conversation with my doctor. A cell phone can put it off. If anything ever happens, I'm done. I will not survive if something ever happens to a pacemaker. I'm very cognizant of that, so when somebody rushes up on me with a cell phone, of course I'm going to react.”

— Fred Hoiberg, Head Coach, Nebraska Men's Basketball

What’s next

Nebraska hosts Penn State on Saturday, February 22, 2026, in their next game following the incident.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the unique medical considerations and safety concerns that coaches and players can face during emotional postgame situations, especially when fans rush the court. It raises questions about how universities can better protect players, coaches, and staff during these types of events to ensure everyone's wellbeing.