Iowa Men’s Basketball Program Adds Four-Time National Champion Coach

The Iowa Hawkeyes men's basketball program is turning the page on a new chapter, and they're doing it with a proven winner at the helm. Following the departure of longtime head coach Fran McCaffery after 15 seasons, Iowa is finalizing a deal to bring in Drake head coach Ben McCollum, a four-time national champion at the Division II level.

McCollum’s coaching success is undeniable. Before his brief but impactful time at Drake, McCollum guided Northwest Missouri State to four Division II national championships, cementing his status as one of the most accomplished coaches at that level. His teams were known for their disciplined, defense-first approach, combined with efficient offensive play. This same formula could serve him well in the Big Ten.

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After taking over at Drake, McCollum made an immediate impact, leading the Bulldogs to an NCAA Tournament appearance, including an impressive upset of sixth-seeded Missouri in this year’s first round. Drake’s run was ended in the Round of 32 with a loss to Texas Tech.

McCollum’s arrival will be officially announced tomorrow, March 25th, during a press conference held by Iowa Athletics at 3:30 PM. The event will be broadcast live on the Hawkeye Network through Learfield Sports. Gary Dolphin will host the coverage and conduct a live interview with McCollum afterward.

McCollum’s ties to the Hawkeye State run deep. Born and raised in Iowa City, McCollum played college basketball in Iowa and understands the culture surrounding Iowa and Hawkeye athletics. His familiarity with the area and experience at multiple levels of competition make him a great fit as Iowa aims to re-establish itself as a contender in the Big Ten.

The buzz around McCollum’s hire doesn’t stop with him. Reports from MSN are looking at key Drake player Bennett Stirtz, who thrived under McCollum and could follow the coach to Iowa City. Together, they could be the foundation of a new era in Iowa basketball.

For Hawkeye fans, hope is back, despite six key players entering the transfer portal. McCollum’s winning pedigree may be exactly what the program needs to take the next step.