Iowa to hire Drake's McCollum as next men's basketball coach

Drake v Missouri

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Multiple reports say that Iowa is hiring Drake's Ben McCollum as the next head coach of the Iowa men's basketball team.

ESPN and The Athletic both report the Bulldogs head coach will take over the Hawkeyes program next season.

McCollum led Drake to a 31-4 record and the second round of the NCAA men's tournament in his one season at the school.

Before that, he was the head coach at Division II Northwest Missouri State for 15 seasons, winning four national championships and nearly 400 games in that time.

McCollum was born in Iowa City, and went to St. Mary's High School in Storm Lake.

UPDATE - 10:40 a.m.

Iowa is confirming that Ben McCollum is the next head coach of the Hawkeyes men's basketball team.

In a press release, Director of Athletics Beth Goetz said:

“We are excited to welcome Coach McCollum and his family back to Iowa City. Ben has a track record of success both on and off the court. His talent for developing student-athletes and fostering a strong team culture has been evident throughout his career,” said Goetz. “I am confident that Hawkeye fans will enthusiastically support the McCollum family as we embark on the next chapter of Iowa men’s basketball.”

McCollum made a statement as well, saying:

“Returning to Iowa City as the head coach of the Hawkeyes is a dream come true for me and my family. The passion of Hawkeye fans is unmatched, and I am incredibly excited to get started on this new journey together. I am thankful to so many people who have been part of my journey, especially Michelle, Peyton, Tate and Grace.”

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