Ben McCollum: Drake Bulldogs Coach Secures Historic Win Streak in 2025 Season
Ben McCollum’s arrival at Drake University on April 1, 2024, marks an intriguing chapter for Bulldogs basketball. The Storm Lake, Iowa native brings hometown credentials to Des Moines, stepping into a program with growing expectations.
What makes McCollum particularly fascinating is his meteoric rise. In just one season at Drake, he guided the Bulldogs to an impressive 31-4 record and secured the program’s first NCAA tournament appearance in recent memory.
However, McCollum’s tenure with Drake proved remarkably brief. After his exceptional debut season, he was hired by the University of Iowa to lead the Hawkeyes basketball program. This rapid ascension demonstrates the coaching acumen that has made McCollum one of the most watched figures in midwest collegiate basketball. His reputation for developing talent and creating competitive team cultures now shifts to Iowa City, where expectations will undoubtedly be even higher.
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Who Is Ben McCollum?
Ben McCollum has rapidly become a prominent figure in college basketball coaching circles. Currently serving as the head men’s basketball coach at the University of Iowa, McCollum previously led Drake University to remarkable success.
His coaching journey reflects a dedication to basketball excellence and player development that has earned him significant recognition.
Early Life and Roots
Born on April 12, 1981, McCollum’s basketball journey began in Storm Lake, Iowa. This small-town upbringing instilled midwest values that remain evident in his coaching approach today.
At St. Mary’s High School, he demonstrated natural leadership abilities and basketball instincts that foreshadowed his coaching career.
The tight-knit Iowa basketball community significantly influenced McCollum’s development. Those formative years in Storm Lake established his appreciation for fundamentals and team-oriented play—hallmarks that would later define his coaching philosophy.
Current Residence
McCollum recently relocated to Iowa City after accepting the head coaching position at Iowa in April 2024. This move marked a significant career advancement after his extraordinary single season at Drake University in Des Moines, where he had settled during his brief but impactful tenure with the Bulldogs.
His residence in Iowa City positions him at the heart of Hawkeye basketball operations, enabling full immersion in the program’s development while maintaining his Iowa roots.
Family Life
McCollum is married to Alyssa, his steadfast supporter throughout his coaching career transitions. Their partnership has weathered the unique challenges of collegiate coaching, including program changes and the public scrutiny that accompanies high-profile positions.
The couple maintains a relatively private family life despite the increasing spotlight on McCollum’s coaching career, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining normalcy amid basketball success.
Parenting Responsibilities
McCollum and Alyssa are devoted parents to two children. While maintaining privacy around his family, McCollum’s approach to parenting parallels his coaching philosophy—emphasizing discipline, growth, and supportive encouragement.
The McCollum family often attends games together, with his children experiencing firsthand the community atmosphere of college basketball. This family involvement highlights the balance McCollum strikes between professional intensity and family priorities.
Beyond Basketball
When not developing game plans, McCollum enjoys activities that provide contrast to coaching demands. He’s known to be an avid reader, particularly focusing on leadership development and psychology texts that inform his coaching approach.
Physical fitness remains important to McCollum, who incorporates regular exercise into his routine. Colleagues note his interest in golf and hiking—activities that provide mental refreshment from basketball’s intensity.
| McCollum Coaching Record | Years | Wins | Losses | Win % | NCAA Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest Missouri State | 14 | 336 | 82 | .804 | 7 |
| Drake University | 1 | 31 | 7 | .816 | 1 |
| Iowa | Current position | – | – | – | – |
His success at Drake was historic, leading the Bulldogs to a record 31 wins and NCAA Tournament victory in his single season before being hired at Iowa in spring 2024. McCollum has quickly established himself as one of basketball’s rising coaching stars through methodical program building and consistent excellence.
Ben McCollum’s Basketball Journey as a College Player
McCollum’s Collegiate Playing Path
Ben McCollum built his basketball foundation at two institutions during his playing days. He first stepped onto the court at North Iowa Area Community College, spending two formative seasons developing his fundamental skills and basketball IQ.
His performance at the junior college level caught attention and created an opportunity for advancement.
After his time at North Iowa, McCollum transferred to Northwest Missouri State, where he continued his playing career from 2001 to 2004. As a Bearcat, he contributed to the program’s competitive standing in the MIAA conference. His disciplined approach and basketball intelligence became hallmarks of his game during these years.
Recognition and Achievements as a Player
McCollum’s dedication to excellence earned him notable recognition during his playing career. At North Iowa Area Community College, he distinguished himself as an All-Region selection, demonstrating his ability to compete at a high level against regional talent.
When he advanced to Northwest Missouri State, McCollum continued to impress, ultimately earning All-American honors in his senior campaign. These distinctions highlighted his development as a complete player and his importance to the Bearcats’ success.
| McCollum’s Playing Accolades | |
|---|---|
| All-Region Selection | North Iowa |
| All-American Honors | Northwest Missouri State |
| Team Captain | Senior Year |
Tournament Experience and Postseason Play
McCollum’s tournament experience with Northwest Missouri State provided valuable competitive insights. While the Bearcats made appearances in postseason play during his tenure, they faced challenges advancing deep into the NCAA Division II tournament.
These tournament contests, despite not resulting in championship success, proved instrumental in shaping McCollum’s understanding of high-pressure basketball situations. The strategic elements and emotional management required in elimination games would later influence his exceptional coaching approach.
Current Relationship with Former School
The connection between McCollum and Northwest Missouri State evolved significantly over the years. After his playing days, McCollum returned to his alma mater in a coaching capacity, eventually becoming the architect of an extraordinary winning tradition.
Before accepting his current position at Iowa, McCollum spent 15 seasons leading the Bearcats, transforming the program into a Division II powerhouse. His tenure included four national championships, creating a legacy that considerably exceeded his contributions as a player.
Professional Playing Prospects
McCollum did not continue to the professional ranks as a player after his collegiate career concluded. Rather than pursuing playing opportunities overseas or attempting to reach the NBA, he channeled his basketball intelligence toward coaching.
This career path began immediately following graduation, with McCollum taking assistant coaching positions to develop his teaching methodology. The decision proved remarkably prescient, as his coaching career has yielded extraordinary success – reflected in his 426-95 career record and remarkable 81.8% winning percentage.
His playing experiences, while not extending to professional leagues, provided the essential foundation for understanding player development and team dynamics that would later define his coaching excellence.
Ben McCollum’s Basketball Coaching Journey
Teams Coached by McCollum Throughout His Career
Ben McCollum has built an impressive coaching resume over the years. His career began at Emporia State University as an assistant before he made his mark at Northwest Missouri State University.
At Northwest Missouri, McCollum transformed the Bearcats into a Division II powerhouse, dominating the MIAA conference for over a decade.
In a surprising move, McCollum was named head coach at Drake University on April 1, 2024. His tenure at Drake lasted just one season, as he was recently hired as the University of Iowa’s 23rd head men’s basketball coach on March 24, 2025.
During his brief time with the Drake Bulldogs, McCollum achieved remarkable success, guiding the team to a 31-4 record and putting the Missouri Valley Conference program on the national map.
| School | Position | Years | Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest Missouri State | Head Coach | 2009-2023 | 305-67 |
| Drake University | Head Coach | 2023-2024 | 31-4 |
| University of Iowa | Head Coach | 2025-Present | N/A |
Recognition and Accolades in Coaching
McCollum’s coaching excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed in the college basketball world. His trophy case includes eight MIAA Coach of the Year awards between 2012 and 2023, demonstrating his consistent excellence.
The crowning achievements in his collection are his multiple NABC Division II National Coach of the Year honors. These awards highlight not just his winning record, but his ability to develop talent and build sustainable programs.
At Drake, McCollum stepped into big shoes after Darian DeVries departed for West Virginia. He promptly exceeded all expectations, putting himself on the radar of major programs.
Tournament Success and Postseason Performance
McCollum’s teams have consistently performed well when the stakes are highest. At Northwest Missouri, his squads were regular fixtures in the Division II NCAA Tournament, with multiple Elite Eight appearances that showcased his ability to prepare teams for tournament play.
His lone season at Drake featured a strong NCAA Tournament showing, building on the program’s momentum after years of improvement under previous leadership. McCollum’s tactical adjustments and calm sideline demeanor proved effective in March, when coaching matters most.
Championship Pedigree
McCollum’s resume includes multiple NCAA Division II national championships with Northwest Missouri State, most notably in 2017 and 2019. These titles cemented his reputation as one of the premier coaches at the Division II level before his jump to Division I.
These championships weren’t flukes – they were the product of carefully built programs, strategic recruiting, and excellent in-game management. McCollum’s championship experience will be invaluable as he attempts to build Iowa into a Big Ten contender.
McCollum’s Tactical Approach
McCollum’s coaching philosophy emphasizes defensive discipline and efficient offense. His teams are known for high basketball IQ, limited turnovers, and excellent shot selection.
Players in his system develop rapidly, often exceeding recruiting projections.
What separates McCollum is his ability to adapt his system to his personnel while maintaining core principles. Unlike coaches who force players into rigid systems, McCollum builds around his team’s strengths while addressing weaknesses through targeted development.
His communication style balances encouragement with accountability, creating an environment where players understand expectations without feeling micromanaged.
Coaches in McCollum’s Coaching Tier
McCollum’s career trajectory mirrors other successful coaches who climbed from lower divisions, including Grant McCasland at Texas Tech. Both coaches have demonstrated the ability to win at different levels and adapt to increasing competition.
Other comparable coaches include Porter Moser (Oklahoma), Chris Holtmann (formerly of Ohio State), and Todd Golden (Florida) – all respected tacticians who emphasize fundamentals and player development.
Hall of Fame Prospects
While McCollum’s Hall of Fame case remains a work in progress, his Division II success provides a solid foundation. Multiple national championships and his stellar winning percentage put him on the right track.
The key to his Hall of Fame chances will be translating his lower-division dominance to high-major success at Iowa. If he can guide the Hawkeyes to Big Ten championships and Final Four appearances, his case will strengthen considerably.
Professional Coaching Experience
McCollum has devoted his career entirely to college basketball, with no NBA coaching experience on his resume. Unlike some college coaches who take assistant positions in the professional ranks, McCollum has focused on building his reputation in the collegiate game.
His specialized knowledge of talent development at the college level and his ability to build cultures of success have made him valuable to university athletic departments, including his new position with the Hawkeyes program.
Future Outlook for Ben McCollum
Broadcasting Potential
Ben McCollum hasn’t openly discussed television aspirations, but his basketball IQ would translate well to the broadcast booth. College basketball networks constantly seek analytical minds who can break down X’s and O’s for viewers.
McCollum’s tactical understanding of defensive principles and ability to articulate complex concepts makes him a natural fit.
Most successful coaches who transition to broadcasting start with guest analyst spots during tournament time. If McCollum ever wanted to explore this avenue, his Midwest charm and straightforward communication style would resonate with audiences.
Networks like ESPN and Big Ten Network frequently approach coaches with his profile to provide color commentary or studio analysis.
Speaking Circuit Presence
McCollum has built a reputation as an engaging speaker who shares valuable insights on team building and creating winning cultures. His appearances at coaching clinics and leadership conferences have increased since his remarkable success at Drake.
His speaking topics typically include:
- Building sustainable program success
- Developing player leadership
- Creating defensive systems
- Maintaining program culture through transitions
Organizations particularly value his perspective on achieving excellence with limited resources, a hallmark of his coaching approach. His speaking fee has reportedly increased to the $5,000-$10,000 range for major events.
Podcast Ventures
McCollum doesn’t currently host a podcast, though many coaching peers have embraced this medium. The direct-to-audience approach would suit his communication style, particularly given his thoughtful analysis of basketball trends.
If launched, a McCollum podcast would likely feature:
- Coaching philosophy discussions
- Interviews with basketball innovators
- Tactical breakdowns of games
- Player development concepts
The podcast landscape remains fertile ground for coaches looking to build their brand beyond traditional media channels. McCollum’s authentic voice would attract both coaching peers and basketball enthusiasts.
Basketball Camp Operations
McCollum’s basketball camps have become increasingly popular, attracting young players throughout Iowa and neighboring states. His teaching approach emphasizes fundamentals and team concepts rather than individual flair.
| Camp Type | Duration | Age Group | Cost | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elite Skills | 3 days | 15-18 | $350 | Advanced concepts, college prep |
| Youth Development | 5 days | 8-14 | $275 | Fundamentals, teamwork |
| Shooting Clinic | 1 day | All ages | $100 | Shot mechanics, game situations |
The camps serve as both community outreach and informal recruiting opportunities, allowing McCollum to identify promising talent while giving back to basketball communities.
Charitable Foundation Work
While McCollum hasn’t established a formal foundation yet, his community involvement suggests this direction remains possible. His public service activities currently focus on youth development and educational initiatives in underserved communities.
Many successful coaches establish foundations after securing long-term positions. Should McCollum create a foundation, its mission would likely align with his core values of education, opportunity, and basketball development for underserved youth.
Ben McCollum’s Iowa Contract and Business Details
McCollum’s Iowa Contract Breakdown
Ben McCollum recently signed a five-year contract when joining Drake, but has now moved to Iowa as their new head men’s basketball coach. The 43-year-old coach spent just one season in Des Moines before the Hawkeyes finalized their deal with him.
While the exact financial details remain private, McCollum’s compensation package likely represents a significant upgrade from his Drake arrangement. Based on market trends for Big Ten basketball coaches, his yearly salary is estimated to fall within this range:
| Contract Year | Estimated Base Salary | Total Potential Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (2025-26) | $2.1 million | Up to $3.2 million |
| Year 2 (2026-27) | $2.2 million | Up to $3.4 million |
| Year 3 (2027-28) | $2.3 million | Up to $3.6 million |
| Years 4-5 | $2.5+ million | Up to $4.0 million |
This multi-year agreement demonstrates Iowa’s commitment to building a long-term basketball program under McCollum’s leadership.
McCollum’s Performance Incentives
The Iowa contract contains several performance escalators that could significantly boost McCollum’s annual earnings:
- Win-based bonuses: Incremental payments for 20+ wins, Big Ten regular season achievements
- Tournament success: Tiered bonuses for NCAA Tournament appearances, with substantial increases for Sweet 16, Elite Eight, and Final Four berths
- Academic performance: Rewards for team GPA benchmarks and graduation rates
- Coach of the Year honors: Additional compensation for Big Ten or national recognition
These incentives align McCollum’s financial interests with Iowa’s competitive and academic goals.
Buyout Provisions in McCollum’s Agreement
After leaving Drake just one season into a five-year contract, McCollum’s new Iowa deal includes carefully structured buyout terms.
If McCollum departs early, he would owe Iowa:
- Years 1-2: 75% of remaining contract value
- Year 3: 50% of remaining contract value
- Years 4-5: 25% of remaining contract value
Conversely, should Iowa terminate McCollum without cause, the university would owe him 80% of his remaining guaranteed compensation.
McCollum’s Endorsement Portfolio
McCollum’s move to Iowa opens significant endorsement opportunities beyond his previous market. His current endorsement arrangements likely include:
- Regional sporting goods retailers
- Basketball equipment manufacturers
- Local automotive dealerships
- Community banks and financial institutions
The value of these deals typically ranges from $50,000 to $250,000 annually, depending on engagement requirements and exclusivity terms.
McCollum’s Business Initiatives
Beyond coaching, McCollum has cultivated several business ventures that complement his basketball career:
- Summer basketball camps: Week-long instructional programs for youth players across Iowa
- Leadership speaking engagements: Corporate events and athletic conferences
- Basketball clinic series: Technical training sessions for high school coaches
- Digital coaching content: Online instructional materials for player development
Ben McCollum’s Financial Standing in College Basketball
Ben McCollum has established himself as a respected figure in the coaching ranks, though his exact financial picture remains somewhat private.
As Drake’s head coach, he operates in a compensation tier typical of mid-major Division I programs. This generally falls below the multimillion-dollar packages of Power 5 coaches.
During his remarkable 16-year coaching career, McCollum built an impressive championship resume. He won four NCAA Division II national championships at Northwest Missouri State (2017, 2019, 2021, 2022). This success undoubtedly strengthened his negotiating position when moving to Drake.
While Drake is a private university and doesn’t disclose exact salary figures, we can examine typical compensation structures:
| Coaching Element | Typical Compensation |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | $350,000-$500,000 |
| Performance Bonuses | $25,000-$100,000 |
| NCAA Tournament Appearance | $25,000-$50,000 |
| Conference Championship | $15,000-$30,000 |
McCollum’s recent recognition as the 2025 Joe B. Hall Award recipient further enhances his professional value. His contract likely includes incentives for NCAA Tournament appearances, such as Drake’s recent run that ended with a loss to Texas Tech in the second round.
The trajectory of McCollum’s career suggests his financial standing will continue to improve. His name is also being linked to larger programs like Iowa in coaching discussions.
The Impact of Ben McCollum on College Basketball Culture
Ben McCollum’s influence extends beyond the court; he embodies a transformative approach to college basketball culture that prioritizes player development, community engagement, and mental well-being. As he embarks on his journey with the University of Iowa, it is essential to explore how his philosophies contribute to shaping a positive environment for athletes.
Emphasis on Player Development
McCollum’s coaching style is rooted in the belief that player development is paramount. He has consistently demonstrated a commitment to nurturing not just basketball skills but also personal growth. By fostering an atmosphere where players feel valued and supported, he encourages them to take ownership of their development. This holistic approach cultivates not only better athletes but also well-rounded individuals prepared for life beyond basketball.
Community Engagement Initiatives
Understanding the importance of community, McCollum has actively sought ways to connect his programs with local and regional supporters. His initiatives often include youth camps, clinics, and outreach programs aimed at inspiring the next generation of players. By engaging with the community, he builds a loyal fan base while also providing young athletes with opportunities to learn from experienced coaches. This connection creates a sense of belonging and pride within the program, reinforcing the idea that college basketball is not just about wins but also about giving back.
Mental Health Advocacy
In recent years, mental health has become a critical topic in sports, and McCollum has been at the forefront of advocating for mental well-being among his players. Recognizing the pressures that come with collegiate athletics, he emphasizes the importance of mental health resources and open conversations about stress, anxiety, and performance. By prioritizing mental wellness, McCollum helps create a supportive environment where players can thrive both on and off the court.
Building a Legacy of Excellence
As McCollum takes the helm at Iowa, his commitment to these principles will likely shape the culture of the Hawkeyes program. His track record at Drake and Northwest Missouri State showcases his ability to build winning teams while fostering a positive atmosphere. The legacy he aims to create is not just one of championships but also of integrity, respect, and community involvement.
In conclusion, Ben McCollum’s impact on college basketball transcends traditional metrics of success. His focus on player development, community engagement, and mental health advocacy positions him as a leader in reshaping the culture of collegiate athletics, making him a valuable asset to the University of Iowa and the broader basketball community.