Iowa's head coach, Ben McCollum, is gearing up for Saturday's matchup against Penn State, and he's got plenty to say about the team's current dynamics. With the spotlight on Alvaro Folgueiras, a standout transfer from Robert Morris, McCollum is optimistic about his upward trajectory.
On Alvaro Folgueiras' Consistency
Folgueiras is finding his rhythm within the team, and McCollum is seeing positive signs. As Folgueiras grows more comfortable with the system, his performance is trending upward.
McCollum believes that Folgueiras is starting to connect with the group, and while there may be ups and downs, the overall direction is promising. Saturday's game will be a good test to see if this trend continues.
Facing Penn State
McCollum acknowledges Penn State's talent and physicality, noting their strong start to the season. With Coach Rhoades at the helm, Penn State is a formidable opponent. McCollum emphasizes the importance of being prepared and focused, especially when playing on the road.
Possible Changes to the Starting Lineup
The coach is considering adjustments to the starting lineup, not as a punishment, but to find better chemistry on the court. McCollum stresses that the current lineup isn't meshing well together, and it's crucial to find the right combination. He understands the challenges of shifting roles and the impact it can have on players' performances.
Cooper Koch's shooting struggles are on McCollum's radar, but he remains confident in Koch's abilities. McCollum points out that Koch's defense is improving and expects his shooting to follow suit.
Reflecting on the 14-2 Start vs. OSU
McCollum is analyzing the team's energy and lineup effectiveness. He's cautious about overthinking the situation but recognizes the need for adjustments.
The challenge lies in deciding who to insert into the lineup without disrupting current roles. Alvaro Folgueiras' recent performance makes him a candidate, but McCollum is weighing the potential impact on his comfort and effectiveness.
Defensive Improvements
There's a renewed urgency in Iowa's defense, and McCollum is pleased with the progress. Trusting the defensive system is key, and players like Kael, despite dealing with a nagging injury, are stepping up. McCollum highlights the importance of sticking to fundamental principles and staying focused, especially given the team's limitations in athleticism and shot-blocking.
What Drives Alvaro Folgueiras
Folgueiras' ability to move the ball and finish plays is a significant asset. While he's a capable shooter, McCollum emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on his three-point shooting.
Folgueiras' versatility and understanding of his role are what truly make him valuable. McCollum is guiding him to embrace his full skill set and not get caught up in external expectations.
As Iowa prepares for Penn State, McCollum's insights offer a glimpse into the team's strategy and focus on continuous improvement. The Hawkeyes are looking to refine their approach and capitalize on their strengths as they face a challenging opponent.