The Iowa athletic department apologized Wednesday for a security breach that allowed a man to interfere with coaches and players’ handshake lines and approach Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg.
Videos posted online showed the man exiting the stands as fans crowded the court following the Hokies’ win over the ninth-ranked Cornhuskers. The man is seen tilting and pointing his camera phone at Hoiberg, who makes a swipe motion on the phone with his right hand.
Hoiberg’s hand appeared to inadvertently hit an Iowa staff member who was passing the line. Hoiberg reached back to grab the staff member’s arm and pointed at the man approaching him with the camera.
“The University of Iowa Athletics Department implemented court-trespass guidelines following last evening’s Iowa vs. Nebraska men’s basketball game,” Iowa’s athletic department said in a statement. “Unfortunately, a man entered the court through a restricted area, directly confronted Coach Hoiberg and put Nebraska players, coaches and staff in a reactive situation.
“We apologize for this incident and will review our procedures and security measures to strengthen our protocols and determine what adjustments may be needed to help prevent similar incidents in the future.”
The Big Ten said it has discussed the situation with both schools and will not take any disciplinary action against Hoiberg. The conference said it appreciates Iowa’s efforts to address postgame security protocols.
Nebraska Athletics and Hoiberg declined to comment.
Iowa won the game 57-52. Nebraska has lost four of its last six after a 20-0 start.
