There’s something special about Ben McCollum, the new head coach of Iowa’s men’s basketball team. Born in Iowa City and raised in Storm Lake, this hometown hero has returned to his roots with a mission: to bring the same winning mentality that defined his 15-year tenure at Northwest Missouri State to the Hawkeyes. His story isn’t just about basketball—it’s about grit, perseverance, and a love for the game that shines through every step of the way.
A Coach’s Journey Begins in Iowa
Ben McCollum’s journey in basketball started close to home. Born in Iowa City, he grew up in Storm Lake, a small town about four hours away from Iowa’s campus. From an early age, McCollum had a deep connection to the sport, one that would eventually lead him to become one of the most successful coaches in Division II history. Before landing at Drake University, McCollum honed his skills as the head coach at Northwest Missouri State, where he spent 15 transformative seasons.
From Division II Success to Big Ten Ambitions
McCollum’s time at Northwest Missouri State was nothing short of legendary. Over 16 seasons, he amassed an impressive 395 wins and led the Bearcats to four Division II national championships. His teams consistently ranked among the best in the nation, finishing in the top 10 for scoring defense for the past decade. Last season alone, his squad boasted the second-best scoring defense in the country, allowing just 58.9 points per game. This kind of success didn’t go unnoticed, and when the opportunity arose to return to his home state, McCollum seized it.
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A Fresh Start at Drake
Before taking the reins at Iowa, McCollum spent a season coaching the Drake Bulldogs. It was here that he began laying the groundwork for his next chapter. During his time at Drake, McCollum demonstrated the same winning formula that made him a standout at Northwest Missouri State. His ability to build a strong team culture and instill a relentless work ethic in his players set the stage for what was to come. By the end of his stint, it was clear that McCollum was ready for the next big challenge.
Bringing Drake’s Talent to Iowa
When McCollum took the helm at Iowa, he didn’t waste any time making his mark. One of his first moves was to sign five former Drake Bulldogs—guards Bennett Stirtz, Kael Combs, and Isaia Howard, along with forwards Tavion Banks and Cam Manyawu—to join the Hawkeyes. These players aren’t just any additions; they’re seasoned veterans who have already proven their worth under McCollum’s leadership. As he puts it, “Those guys know how to win. They know the habit of being ready every single day.” With this infusion of talent, McCollum is confident that the Hawkeyes will make waves in the competitive Big Ten Conference.
The Coach Who Always Wins
McCollum’s track record speaks for itself. At Northwest Missouri State, he didn’t just win games—he built a dynasty. His teams were known for their discipline, tenacity, and offensive efficiency. This success didn’t come by accident; it stemmed from McCollum’s commitment to excellence and his ability to connect with his players. Even as rumors swirled about his potential moves to bigger programs, McCollum remained focused on the task at hand. “It’s the nature of having a level of success,” he said. “It’s kind of a gift and a curse, I guess.” But for McCollum, the focus has always been on the team, not the noise.
A New Era for Iowa Basketball
On March 25, Iowa basketball held an introductory press conference for McCollum, marking the beginning of a new era for the program. It was a chance for McCollum to connect with the Hawkeyes fan base and share his vision for the future. During the conference, McCollum emphasized the importance of building a strong culture rooted in hard work, accountability, and teamwork. He believes that these values will translate into success both on and off the court.
As McCollum embarks on this new chapter, fans across Iowa are buzzing with excitement. With his proven track record and unwavering passion for the game, there’s no doubt that McCollum is the right person to lead the Hawkeyes into a brighter future. Whether it’s through his strategic mind, his ability to recruit top talent, or his knack for motivating players, McCollum is poised to make a lasting impact on Iowa basketball.
Why McCollum is the Perfect Fit
What sets McCollum apart from other coaches is his deep understanding of the connection between culture and winning. He knows that success isn’t just about X’s and O’s—it’s about creating an environment where players feel empowered to reach their full potential. This holistic approach to coaching has served him well throughout his career, and it’s exactly what Iowa needs right now.
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As McCollum steps into his role as the 23rd head coach of the Hawkeyes, one thing is certain: he’s not just a coach—he’s a leader. With his heart set on bringing glory to Iowa basketball, McCollum is ready to show the world what this program is capable of. So buckle up, because the journey is just getting started, and it’s going to be one heck of a ride.
