As the offseason heats up, Ben McCollum and his team at Iowa face the critical task of shaping a roster that can sustain their recent success. In his first year, McCollum exceeded expectations, setting the stage for an exciting recruiting season.
With the transfer portal opening on April 7, McCollum has a golden opportunity to bolster the 2026 recruiting class. So far, forward prospect Ethan Harris stands alone in the class, but McCollum is keen to change that narrative. He's set his sights on a promising in-state talent, Jaidyn Coon, who has recently reopened his recruitment.
Coon, a standout from Iowa and the 2026 Iowa Mr. Basketball, is a top-five prospect in the state.
Originally committed to Creighton, Coon is now exploring his options following Greg McDermott's retirement. This development offers McCollum a second chance to bring the explosive three-star forward to Iowa City.
Standing at six-foot-seven, Coon is a dynamic athlete known for his high-flying abilities. His senior year stats at Storm Lake speak volumes: 22.0 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. These numbers highlight his impact on both ends of the court, making him a perfect fit for McCollum's vision.
The connection between McCollum and Coon runs deep, both hailing from Storm Lake, Iowa. This shared background could play a crucial role in Coon's decision-making process. Landing Coon would not only be a significant win for McCollum but also a pivotal addition to the Hawkeyes' roster, adding depth and athleticism.
As McCollum continues to build his team, the anticipation grows. The potential addition of Coon could be a game-changer, setting the Hawkeyes up for an exciting future.