The 2025‑26 season marks a defining moment for the Iowa Hawkeyes men’s basketball program. With a new head coach at the helm, a nearly rebuilt roster and an early season opener fast approaching, Iowa is stepping into a new era and attempting to turn last season’s disappointment into momentum.
1. Leadership Change & Program Reset
Last season’s 17‑16 overall record and 7‑13 mark in Big Ten play prompted sweeping changes in Iowa City. Following the departure of former coach Fran McCaffery after 15 seasons, the university turned to Ben McCollum—widely regarded for his program‑building success—to lead the Hawkeyes forward.
McCollum inherits a program hungry for identity and performance. His track record suggests a shift toward a disciplined, modern offense and an emphasis on team cohesion.
2. Roster Overhaul & Transfer Infusion
The transformation is visible across the roster. Only one returning scholarship player remains from last year, making this arguably one of the most significant turnovers in recent Iowa history. Among the key arrivals:
- Guards from McCollum’s previous stop, bringing familiarity and maturity.
- Junior forward Álvaro Folgueiras, arriving via transfer, expected to contribute size, scoring and international experience.
With this fresh mix of veterans and newcomers, Iowa’s cohesion and chemistry will be tested early—and often.
3. Big Non‑Conference Slate & Early Tests
The season opens at home against Robert Morris Colonials, marking McCollum’s debut at Carver‑Hawkeye Arena and the official launch of the rebuilding process. From there:
- Matchups against the likes of Xavier Musketeers and non‑conference tournaments provide both opportunities and early barometers.
- A Big Ten schedule that features road trips to program‑powerhouses and high‑stakes home games will force Iowa to learn quickly.
For a team in transition, how they respond to early‑season adversity—or capitalize on their own momentum—may set the tone for the campaign.
4. Identity & What to Expect
Iowa’s trajectory will hinge upon how effectively McCollum installs his philosophies:
- Offense: A more balanced attack, less reliance on single high‑volume scorers, and greater ball movement.
- Defense: Improved fundamentals, better communication, and more consistent effort over 40 minutes.
- Culture: With so many transfers and new faces, establishing leadership, buy‑in and role clarity will be paramount.
The fan base is cautious but hopeful. Improvement in the win‑column is desired, but so is a clear path forward—a program that feels like it belongs in the upper tier of the Big Ten.
5. Early Warning Zones and Measures of Progress
- Close‑game performance: How Iowa finishes tight games will reveal its mental toughness and poise.
- Consistency: Can the team avoid long lapses, particularly in hostile environments?
- Development: With many new players, growth through November and December is critical before conference play begins.
- Fan engagement: Attendance and energy at Carver‑Hawkeye Arena will reflect the connection between the program and its supporters.
If Iowa shows visible advance in these areas—even if the win‑loss record lags early—the foundation may be laid for sustainable success.
Final Word
For the Iowa Hawkeyes, this season isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about re‑defining. With Coach Ben McCollum in his first year, a fresh‑faced roster and a Big Ten schedule that will show early whether progress is real, everything is on the line. The opener against Robert Morris isn’t simply a game—it’s a statement. How Iowa answers that first question may determine whether this is a year of reset or resurrection.
By SportBuzzHub staff
November 5, 2025
