The Minnesota Timberwolves have reportedly reached out to one of their former players about becoming the next head coach of the organization.
According to a series of Tweets from WHO TV’s Keith Murphy in Des Moines, Iowa, the Wolves are amongst a few NBA teams trying to convince Iowa State coach Fred Hoiberg to make the jump to the NBA.
I'm hearing Bulls, Twolves, Magic, and Pelicans have all reached out to Hoiberg. No surprise. Bulls charging hardest, but Twolves in play
— Keith Murphy (@MurphyKeith) May 19, 2015
Hoiberg, who played for the Timberwolves from 2003 to 2005, certainly has a connection to the organization. After a heart condition cut his playing career short and forced him to retire after the 2005 season, he joined the Wolves front office.
Chicago is also thought to be in hot pursuit of Hoiberg, who led the Cyclones to the Big 12 Conference Tournament Championship this past season.
If #Bulls make coaching change, Fred Hoiberg WOULD accept the job if it were offered, a source who spoke to Hoiberg told me this morning.
— Bear (@BearHeiser) May 18, 2015
The Bulls haven’t officially made a coaching change yet, but it’s believed they maybe looking to trade or fire head coach Tom Thibodeau, to hire Hoiberg. Hoiberg also played for the Bulls from 1999-2003.
But Minnesota also has an ace or two up their sleeve. Returning to the Timberwolves would mean working with one of the best young talents in the league in Andrew Wiggins and if the Wolves land a top pick in Tuesday night’s draft lottery it could make them an even more appealing destination.
Keep eye on lottery. If Twolves get high pick, makes job more attractive for Hoiberg-or anyone. Door not closed at ISU, but NBA salary dbl.
— Keith Murphy (@MurphyKeith) May 19, 2015
Hoiberg has been coaching at his alma-mater since 2010.
Not about money, but it never hurts to make double. Also hearing Hoiberg believes, in part, he may leave ISU in better shape now vs later.
— Keith Murphy (@MurphyKeith) May 19, 2015
The Lincoln, Nebraska, native has been recovering this offseason after undergoing heart surgery at Rochester’s Mayo Clinic.
