A Revamped Roster
Ben McCollum enters his second year as Iowa’s head coach with a roster that has been reshaped by both departures and arrivals. The Hawkeyes retained seven players from last season while welcoming a group of newcomers who bring size, skill, and fresh energy.
Among the returning pieces, Tate Sage emerged as a reliable scorer during his freshman campaign, capping the year with a career‑high 19‑point performance in the Sweet 16 against Nebraska. His growth illustrates the development the coaching staff has fostered.
Cooper Koch, who battled a shooting slump in his earlier season, used the summer workouts to rebuild confidence and conditioning. His renewed vigor has become a cultural catalyst for the team, influencing how younger players approach preparation.
New Additions Bring Size and Flexibility
The incoming class adds notable height and versatility. Transfer Trevin Jirak, who left Northern Iowa after McCollum’s hiring, trimmed weight and increased strength, expanding his offensive role. Freshmen such as Jaidyn Coon, the 2026 Iowa Mr. Basketball, and 7‑foot‑3 center Andrew McKeever promise to stretch defenses and create mismatches.
The loss of Bennett Stirtz, drafted 16th overall in the 2026 NBA Draft, leaves a leadership gap, but the coaching staff sees an opportunity for other voices to rise. With a deeper frontcourt, Iowa can experiment with jumbo lineups that pair McKeever and Jirak on the floor simultaneously.
Overall, the blend of seasoned returnees and dynamic newcomers positions the Hawkeyes to build on their recent NCAA Tournament success, aiming for a more balanced and competitive schedule.