Ben McCollum: A Key Candidate for Indiana University Basketball Coach

Basketball fans are buzzing with excitement as Indiana University seeks a new head coach for their men’s basketball team. One name rising to the top of the list is Ben McCollum, currently the head coach at Drake University. With an impressive track record and numerous championships, McCollum has become a significant contender for this prestigious role.

Candidate: Ben McCollum

Ben McCollum took the reins of the basketball program at Drake University in 2024 and has quickly made a name for himself. However, it’s his previous position as head coach at Northwest Missouri State University that truly showcases his capabilities. During his tenure there from 2009 to 2024, McCollum achieved incredible success, winning four national championships in NCAA Division II and maintaining a stellar 395-91 record over those 15 years. His remarkable ability to guide teams towards victory has caught the attention of many, making him a household name in college basketball.

Why it Might Work

McCollum’s success at Northwest Missouri State speaks volumes. Leading the team to four national titles demonstrates his coaching prowess and ability to prepare players for high-stakes situations. Additionally, he has built a strong program at Drake, culminating in this season’s regular-season Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) championship with a 27-3 record. Those accomplishments show that McCollum knows how to foster talent and lead a team to triumph. His coaching style and strategies could potentially mesh well with Indiana’s basketball culture, offering fans hope for a successful new era.

Why it Might Not Work

Yet, not all is sunshine and rainbows when it comes to McCollum’s candidacy. Concerns have arisen regarding his limited experience at the Division I level. The Big Ten Conference, where Indiana competes, is known for its fierce competition and elite recruiting landscape. Critics argue that McCollum may struggle to attract top-tier talent to Indiana, especially when faced with coaching giants that have a storied history in the NCAA. Additionally, handling the pressures that come with leading such a high-profile program like Indiana may also weigh heavily on him. Should he falter in these areas, it could jeopardize his chances for the job.

Previous Profiles

Throughout his career, McCollum has reshaped the programs he leads. While at Northwest Missouri State, he earned 12 conference championships over 14 seasons, showcasing his ability to build a winning culture. His commendable efforts earned him the MVC Coach of the Year award in 2024, and he guided Drake to victories against notable programs like Miami (Florida), Kansas State, and Vanderbilt. Such achievements highlight his coaching talents that many believe could be beneficial for Indiana’s ambitious goals.

What Lies Ahead?

As discussions continue about Indiana University’s next steps for their basketball program, Ben McCollum stands at the forefront as a top candidate. His journey in the coaching world may not be complete, as he also faces potential interest from other programs, including a possibility for the Iowa head coaching position should their current coach, Fran McCaffery, decide to leave. The next steps for McCollum will shape the future of college basketball in the region. Fans eagerly anticipate where his coaching career will lead next.

Table of Achievements