Nebraska Basketball’s Sam Hoiberg Joins Phoenix Suns as Undrafted Free Agent
Nebraska guard Sam Hoiberg has agreed to join the Phoenix Suns as an undrafted free agent, according to reports from Sports Illustrated. The former Cornhusker, who played three seasons under his father, head coach Fred Hoiberg, will look to earn a spot on the Suns’ roster or G League affiliate following the conclusion of the 2024 NBA Draft.
What Led to the Signing?
Hoiberg’s transition to the professional level follows a breakout senior campaign at the University of Nebraska. During the 2023-2024 season, the 6-foot-0 guard appeared in 33 games, providing critical depth and defensive intensity for a team that reached the NCAA Tournament. According to University of Nebraska athletics records, Hoiberg averaged 3.4 points and 2.9 rebounds per game, while establishing himself as a reliable perimeter defender.
His path to the NBA mirrors that of many undrafted players who use Summer League and training camp invitations to showcase specific skills. While he was not among the 58 players selected in the two-round NBA Draft, his high basketball IQ—often attributed to his background as a coach’s son—remains his primary asset in the eyes of league scouts.
How Does Hoiberg Fit the Suns’ Roster?
The Phoenix Suns, currently managed by general manager James Jones, have prioritized high-character, high-IQ players to complement a core led by Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. By signing Hoiberg, the organization gains a low-risk, high-effort player for their developmental pipeline.
In the current NBA landscape, teams increasingly value “3-and-D” specialists or glue guys who can operate within a system without requiring high usage rates. Unlike high-draft-pick prospects who are expected to contribute immediately, Hoiberg will likely spend the initial portion of his professional career with the Valley Suns, the organization’s G League affiliate, to adjust to the speed and physicality of the professional game.
Comparing Draft Expectations and Reality
The reality for undrafted free agents has shifted significantly in recent years. With the expansion of two-way contracts, players like Hoiberg have a clearer pathway to the NBA than in previous decades. The following table highlights the differences between draft-pick expectations and the undrafted route:
| Category | Drafted Players | Undrafted Free Agents |
|---|---|---|
| Contract Guarantee | Typically 2-year guaranteed | Exhibit 10 or Two-Way |
| Roster Status | Guaranteed camp spot | Must compete for camp invite |
| Primary Goal | Rotation contribution | G League/Two-Way development |
What Happens Next for Hoiberg?
Hoiberg’s immediate focus will be the NBA Summer League, where he will compete for minutes to prove he can handle NBA-level athleticism. According to official Phoenix Suns communications, the team uses these summer months to evaluate depth and identify potential contributors for the upcoming regular season. Success in Las Vegas would position him to secure a spot in the Suns’ training camp this fall, keeping his professional trajectory aligned with his goal of reaching the league’s highest level.
Key Takeaways
- Sam Hoiberg joins the Phoenix Suns organization following three seasons at the University of Nebraska.
- He played under his father, Fred Hoiberg, gaining experience in a high-major collegiate system.
- The signing provides Hoiberg an opportunity to compete for a roster spot or a two-way contract during the NBA Summer League.
- His development will likely be overseen by the Suns’ G League coaching staff as he transitions to the professional style of play.