Fred Hoiberg doesn’t wear a tie because of a heart condition

In an interview with Grantland, new Bulls coach Fred Hoiberg revealed the reason behind his no-tie look.

When asked by Grantland writer Zach Lowe if his lack of tie was because of his heart condition that required surgery earlier this year, Hoiberg confirmed it was.

“That’s why I stopped wearing it last year,” Hoiberg said, via Grantland. “I got a little light-headed with it on. The valve in my heart was in really bad condition last year, so that was a big part of it. But not wearing a tie was just so much more comfortable for me. I feel it every time my heart beats. Every time. Since the very first surgery, I feel every beat. For me, it’s a comfort thing. I’ve talked to my doctors about it, and they said they are more comfortable with me not wearing a tie.”

Hoiberg has been dealing with heart issues for quite some time. He had his playing career cut short after he was diagnosed with an aortic root aneurysm in 2005.

Hoiberg tweeted out this video in April:

Bulls fans and others on Twitter were throwing some major shade toward Hoiberg for the tieless look, but I’m guessing that will subside now that the truth is out.