During a recent episode of the Inside College Basketball Now Podcast, Iowa head coach Ben McCollum sat down with analyst Jon Rothstein to break down the Hawkeyes’ whirlwind first season in Iowa City.
The Elite Eight Lesson
McCollum pointed to Illinois’ late‑game poise, noting that the Illini’s ability to win the 50/50 balls in the final minutes proved decisive in the narrow defeat.
A Roster in Flux
The coach outlined the composition of the upcoming 2026‑27 squad, emphasizing its length, shooting versatility and the need for tighter execution in the closing five minutes of games.
Among the returning pieces, Cooper Koch has taken a noticeable step forward in his development, while Tate Sage is expected to blossom from his freshman to sophomore year.
New additions — Andrew McKeever, Ty'Reek Coleman, Ethan Harris and Jaidyn Coon — have already made their presence felt during practice and early workouts, adding depth and athleticism.
Scouting Philosophy
When evaluating talent, McCollum looks for translatable attributes such as shooting touch, physical length and twitchiness, traits that he believes can thrive in the modern game.
Non‑Conference Strategy
The non‑conference slate includes neutral‑site contests in Iowa, a deliberate move to give fans local access while testing the team against diverse competition.
Looking Forward
McCollum admitted that the current campaign could represent his final chapter as Iowa’s head coach, citing a desire for long‑term commitment and stability within the program.
He also weighed in on the broader shift in college basketball, asserting that NIL deals and the transfer portal are leveling the playing field and reshaping how teams build chemistry.