A Five-Star Target Emerges
Ben McCollum, the architect of Iowa’s resurgence in college basketball, has already turned the Hawkeyes into a magnet for elite recruits. His latest pursuit centers on Bentley Lusakueno, a 6‑foot‑10 center from Georgia who is ranked seventh overall in the 2028 class by 247Sports.
A Prospect With Proven Pedigree
Lusakueno arrives with a résumé that reads like a recruiting dream. He was a member of the 2025 USA Men’s U16 National Team and is now a finalist for the 2026 USA Men’s U17 squad. Already holding nine Division I scholarship offers, including from Florida State, Georgia, Miami and Oregon, the Georgia native is expected to choose a program that can promise both immediate impact and long‑term development.
The Competition Heats Up
Top programs across the country have already extended offers to Lusakueno, but McCollum believes his relationship with the player’s family and his track record of developing big men could give Iowa a decisive edge. The coach’s ability to compete with traditional powerhouses may prove pivotal in the final decision.
A Broader Class Taking Shape
Beyond Lusakueno, McCollum’s 2028 roster is shaping up with other highly touted prospects. Names such as Ethan Harris, Jaidyn Coon and Keller Daughtery have already committed to the program, adding depth at guard and wing positions. Together, the class promises to keep Iowa among the nation’s most dynamic teams.
The Bigger Picture
If McCollum can secure Lusakueno’s pledge, the Hawkeyes would not only reinforce their frontcourt but also signal that their recruiting pipeline remains robust despite the ever‑changing landscape of college basketball. The commitment could serve as a blueprint for other mid‑major programs aspiring to punch above their weight.