Excitement is in the air for Iowa basketball fans as news has emerged that Ben McCollum, the head coach of Drake University, is being considered for the head coaching position at Iowa. This follows the recent departure of long-time coach Fran McCaffery, who was let go after a challenging season. After 15 years at the helm, McCaffery’s team struggled, missing the NCAA Tournament for the second year in a row, which has fueled passionate discussions about new leadership for the program.
Ben McCollum’s Impressive Track Record
Ben McCollum has proven to be a remarkable coach during his time at Drake. In his first season, he not only led the team to a stunning 30-3 record but also brought home both the Missouri Valley regular season and tournament titles. His coaching success doesn’t stop there; McCollum is known for his impressive track record with four Division II national titles over just six seasons at Northwest Missouri State prior to joining Drake. The combination of his remarkable achievements has made him a hot topic in the sports world and a strong candidate for the Iowa position.
The Shift in Iowa Basketball
The decision to dismiss Fran McCaffery came after a tough season marked by a loss of 106-94 in the Big Ten Tournament’s second round and the coach’s second-half ejection for two technical fouls. This season was particularly disappointing as the team couldn’t secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament, leading to increased scrutiny and demand for change. McCaffery had previously led Iowa to seven NCAA Tournament appearances during his tenure but never advanced beyond the second round. The university is now embarking on an important search for a new leader.
Who Else is in the Running?
Alongside McCollum, another name floating around is that of Darian DeVries, currently the head coach at West Virginia and also an Iowa native. The Athletic Department aims to find someone who not only has a successful coaching past but also understands the culture and expectations of Iowa basketball. The involvement of local talent like McCollum, who hails from Iowa City, makes him an exciting prospect as the search for a new coach begins.
The Community’s Reaction
The buzz around McCollum is palpable among Iowa fans, many of whom remember his local roots and are rallying behind the idea of bringing him home. Fans are eager for the positive energy and fresh strategy McCollum could potentially bring to the team. His emphasis on building strong connections with players and fostering a competitive yet supportive environment is exactly what many believe is needed to lift the program back to its former glory.
Expectations for the Future
As Iowa looks for a new leader, the stakes are high. The university has historically been a strong program in the Big Ten, and fans hope to see the new coach foster a competitive and winning environment. Leaders in Iowa’s athletic community have mentioned that they’re looking for candidates with strong ties to the community and proven success in developing teams. An announcement on who will take the team’s reins is anticipated soon, and Ben McCollum is at the forefront of this pivotal moment in Iowa basketball history.
Conclusion
In summary, Ben McCollum’s rise as a top candidate for the Iowa basketball coaching position reflects his impressive accomplishments at Drake and his potential to rejuvenate a storied program that’s faced challenges. If chosen, he could bring new energy and a strong vision, connecting with players and fans alike as he strives to lead Iowa back into the spotlight of NCAA basketball.
