The Iowa Hawkeyes are ready for a fresh start, and the pressure is on! ð
Ben McCollum, the newly appointed head coach, has been on a mission since March to rally the fans and revive the team's spirit. But now, the real test begins as the players step onto the court to prove themselves.
After a disappointing 17-16 season and two consecutive years without an NCAA Tournament appearance, the Hawkeyes' fan base was dwindling. The team's 7-13 Big Ten record was a stark contrast to their previous success, and the once-packed Carver-Hawkeye Arena saw a decline in attendance, averaging only 9,161 fans per game.
But here's where it gets controversialâthe program's winningest coach, Fran McCaffery, was let go. Enter Ben McCollum, fresh from leading Drake to a remarkable 31-win season and an NCAA Tournament berth. McCollum has been on a charm offensive, attending fan events and connecting with students, knowing that the team's success relies on a strong fan base.
McCollum's task was immense, as he nearly rebuilt the entire roster, retaining only sophomore forward Cooper Koch. He brought six players from Drake, including the talented Bennett Stirtz, who has been with McCollum since his Division II days. These players are crucial in instilling the coach's philosophy and work ethic in the new team.
McCollum, a native of Iowa City and a lifelong Hawkeye fan, understands the program's significance. He senses the fans' eagerness to witness a winning team, and he's determined to deliver. But the question remains: Can the players live up to the hype and bring the Hawkeyes back to their former glory?
And this is the part most people missâthe jump from the Missouri Valley to the Big Ten is a significant challenge. McCollum acknowledges the step up in competition, but he's confident in his team's ability to rise to the occasion.
As the season unfolds, will the Hawkeyes be able to turn things around? Will the fans' faith in McCollum and his players be rewarded? Only time will tell, and the court will be the ultimate judge. Stay tuned, as the story of the Iowa Hawkeyes' resurgence is about to unfold!
