The Iowa Hawkeyes are on the brink of history, making their first Elite Eight appearance since 1987. If they manage to topple Illinois in Houston, it will mark their first Final Four since 1980, back when the tournament was a bit smaller.
This remarkable run has been orchestrated by first-year head coach Ben McCollum. After leading Drake to a 31-4 record and a memorable win over Missouri, McCollum brought his winning ways to Iowa.
His transition from four Division II National Championships at Northwest Missouri State to the Hawkeyes has been seamless, thanks in part to the talent he brought along from Drake. These players have been instrumental, contributing 65% of Iowa's points this season.
While McCollum’s squad might not dazzle offensively, averaging 75.0 points per game (ranking 202nd nationally), their defense is a different story. Allowing just 66.1 points per game, Iowa ranks 18th in the nation.
This defensive prowess has been their calling card, enabling them to upset teams like Clemson, Florida, and Nebraska on their way to the Elite Eight. Florida, who exploded for 114 points in their first-round game, was held to just 72 by Iowa.
However, this success story could take a twist. With UNC parting ways with Hubert Davis after a lackluster tenure, the Tar Heels are on the hunt for a new head coach.
McCollum, currently earning $3.35 million under a six-year contract, is a top contender for the job. The allure of coaching a storied program like North Carolina, with its passionate fan base and increased financial backing, might be too tempting to resist.
At 44, McCollum’s youthful energy and proven track record at various competitive levels make him an attractive candidate. While the leap to a high-pressure role at UNC is significant, it’s a gamble that could pay off for both parties. The Hawkeyes, meanwhile, might find themselves in search of another coach just a year after finding their ideal fit.
There are a couple of potential hurdles. McCollum has spent his career in the Midwest, and relocating his family could be a consideration.
Additionally, whispers about Bill Self’s future at Kansas could complicate matters. If the Kansas job were to open, it might catch McCollum’s attention, although it seems poised for assistant Jacque Vaughn.
Both North Carolina and Kansas present their own challenges and opportunities. UNC offers a slightly less daunting conference landscape, while the Big 12 remains fiercely competitive. Regardless of McCollum's decision, one thing is clear: his salary is set to see a significant increase next season.