Get to Know Men’s Basketball Head Coach Ben McCollum
Ben McCollum, architect to the most successful men’s college basketball dynasty of the last decade, was named men’s basketball head coach at Drake University earlier this year.
Drake University is buzzing with excitement as we welcome first-year Men’s Basketball Coach Ben McCollum to Des Moines, a city that cherishes its sports and takes pride in its hometown heroes. Coach McCollum’s journey back to Iowa speaks of an enduring passion for basketball and a relentless pursuit of excellence—values that align perfectly with Drake’s storied traditions.
“I am honored to be a part of the Drake basketball family. We have seen the transition Drake basketball has made over the past few seasons to become one of the most successful mid-majors in that span. My family and I are very excited to continue that tradition with the support of the great Des Moines community. I would also like to thank President Martin and Athletics Director Brian Hardin for allowing me the opportunity to continue the success at Drake.”
BEN MCCOLLUM
Ben McCollum, architect to the most successful men’s college basketball dynasty of the last decade, was named men’s basketball head coach at Drake University earlier this year.
Drake University is buzzing with excitement as we welcome first-year Men’s Basketball Coach Ben McCollum to Des Moines, a city that cherishes its sports and takes pride in its hometown heroes. Coach McCollum’s journey back to Iowa speaks of an enduring passion for basketball and a relentless pursuit of excellence—values that align perfectly with Drake’s storied traditions.
“I am honored to be a part of the Drake basketball family. We have seen the transition Drake basketball has made over the past few seasons to become one of the most successful mid-majors in that span. My family and I are very excited to continue that tradition with the support of the great Des Moines community. I would also like to thank President Martin and Athletics Director Brian Hardin for allowing me the opportunity to continue the success at Drake.”
BEN MCCOLLUM
Born in Iowa City and raised in the small, close-knit community of Storm Lake, Coach McCollum’s roots in the Hawkeye State run deep. From his high school days at St. Mary’s to his standout collegiate playing years, he has always carried with him the grit and determination characteristic of Iowans. As a young Northern Iowa Area Community College athlete, he made waves as a two-time All-Region player before transferring to Northwest Missouri State University. There, he helped lead the team to a stellar 51-12 record and their first-ever Elite Eight appearance—a harbinger of his future success.
“We are thrilled to add Ben and his family to Drake and the Des Moines community. Ben understands what it takes to achieve sustained excellence. While his incomparable record of success in competition stands out, in talking with people who know Ben, the positive impact he has on the lives of his student-athletes has left a more indelible mark. We welcome Ben to Des Moines’ Hometown Team and cannot wait for what we will accomplish together.”
BRIAN HARDIN
Returning to Maryville years later as head coach, Coach McCollum carved out a legacy that few in the coaching world can claim. Over 15 seasons, he transformed Northwest Missouri State into a powerhouse, clinching four NCAA Division II national championships, including a remarkable three-peat between 2019 and 2022. Under his leadership, the Bearcats achieved an awe-inspiring 394-91 record, capturing 12 regular-season titles and eight MIAA tournament crowns. His accolades include five NABC Division II National Coach of the Year awards—the most ever by a single coach—and a 2024 induction into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame.
“It is my great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to Coach McCollum and his family on behalf of the Drake community. Coach McCollum’s phenomenal success has been grounded in building and sustaining a culture of excellence for his student athletes and his program, and we are all excited for what that means for the future for our men’s basketball team.”
Marty martin
Perhaps even more impressive than the numbers was his ability to build a winning culture. Season after season, his teams embodied perseverance and tactical brilliance, a fact underscored by a flawless 38-0 run in the 2018–2019 season, just the fifth perfect season in Division II history. Each victory and championship underscored a commitment to not just winning but to the pursuit of excellence through basketball.
Coach McCollum’s story is one of full-circle achievement: a former player-turned-coach returning to his home state with a wealth of experience and an unwavering drive. His wife, Michelle, and their three children, Peyton, Tate, and Grace Ann, join him as they become part of the vibrant Des Moines community. Drake University and its passionate fans can look forward to a new era, one infused with Coach McCollum’s legacy of hard work, strategic prowess, and an unyielding love for the game.