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Report: Basketball Coach Ben McCollum, Iowa Finalizing New Six-Year Contract
McCollum led Iowa to a 24-13 season and its first Elite Eight since 1987, prompting a reported contract extension.
Iowa and head coach Ben McCollum are finalizing a new six-year contract following the Hawkeyes' "surprising run to the Elite Eight," marking their first such appearance since 1987.
Before arriving in Iowa City, McCollum won four Division II national titles at Northwest Missouri State and led Drake University to the NCAA Tournament in his only season there.
Despite pursuit by the North Carolina Tar Heels during the tournament, McCollum opted to remain with the Hawkeyes, who secured a 24-13 record and reached the brink of their first Final Four since 1980.
The new deal includes a $4 million buyout if McCollum leaves before April 1, 2027, with the penalty decreasing by $1 million annually until elimination by 2031.
Following his initial 2025 contract worth $3.35 million with a $500,000 annual base salary, this extension marks a significant commitment reflecting McCollum's market value after one successful season.