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Ben McCollum on Iowa's Elite Eight Run & Building a Big Ten Contender
Description
Ben McCollum joins Jon Rothstein after leading Iowa to an Elite Eight in his first season as head coach. McCollum reflects on the jump from the mid-major level at Drake to the Big Ten Conference, what surprised him most, and the defining moments from Iowa's remarkable tournament run.
The two also discuss building and retaining a roster in today's college basketball landscape, expectations for the Hawkeyes' 2026-27 roster, a challenging non-conference schedule, and what it will take to sustain success in Year 2.
(0:00) Ben McCollum
(0:50) Talent Difference
(1:45) Lack of Momentum
(2:45) Florida Upset
(3:46) Best Moments
(4:46) 2026 NCAA Tournament
(6:50) Bennett Stirtz
(7:20) Incoming Roster
(11:30) Upcoming Schedule
(13:25) Job Search
(14:30) Toughest Win/Loss
(15:55) Reflecting
(18:40) Developing a Program
(22:30) Keys to 2026-27
(23:03) Movie Character
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