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Amidst Iowa State rumors, Jeff Hornacek discusses commitment to Phoenix Suns

Memphis Grizzlies v Phoenix Suns

PHOENIX, AZ - NOVEMBER 05: Head coach Jeff Hornacek of the Phoenix Suns reacts during the NBA game against the Memphis Grizzlies at US Airways Center on November 5, 2014 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Grizzlies defeated the Suns 102-91. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

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With current Iowa State head coach Fred Hoiberg believed by many to be the frontrunner for the Chicago Bulls’ head coaching position, a question that’s been asked is who would be up for consideration for the possible opening in Ames. One name that’s been mentioned quite often is that of Iowa State assistant T.J. Otzelberger, who returned to the school after a two-year stint on Lorenzo Romar’s staff at Washington.

Another name that’s been discussed is that of Iowa State great Jeff Hornacek, who just completed his second season as head coach of the Phoenix Suns. This was brought up by ArizonaSports.com Thursday in an interview with Hornacek, who stated that he could not comment on the possibility of moving to the college ranks.

If Hoiberg takes the job, chances are Hornacek’s phone will ring. Will he answer it?

I can’t comment on that,” Hornacek told Burns and Gambo on Arizona Sports 98.7 FM Thursday. “I’m the coach of the Suns. It’s an interesting coaching carousel that goes on around the league and even down to the college level. So, if those things ever come about and the timing was right, yes, but as far as I know I’m the coach of the Suns.”


Whether or not Hornacek is contacted by Iowa State would obviously depend upon Hoiberg’s status; if he were to decide to stay, there would obviously be no need for Pollard to make a head coaching hire. But if Hoiberg were to go, it would be interesting to see if the school would look to call up another former player to take the reins.

Regardless of who the head coach is at Iowa State next season, they’ll have a team that should contend both in the Big 12 and nationally. Georges Niang and Monte Morris lead the returnees, and the Cyclones will also add transfers such as Hallice Cooke and Deonte Burton to the rotation.

h/t CBS Sports