Iowa Men's Basketball is peaking at the right time, and is currently on a five-game winning streak.
The catalysts for Iowa's win streak have been a commitment to defensive pressure and leaning on Bennett Stirtz, but another factor has arguably been even more important to success.
Junior forward Alvaro Folgueiras has emerged as an x-factor for the Hakweyes during their current five-game winning streak, and Ben McCollum had nothing but praise for all the work he has put in.
McCollum is adamant that Folgueiras has shown he can win games
McCollum has been pleased with the growth that Folgueiras has made this season, and stated that he has gotten "exponentially better."
Ben McCollum on Alvaro Folgueiras: "He's gotten exponentially better. I think just from a winning perspective, that's the biggest thing. He's shown that he can win basketball games and he's playing like a winner now."
— Tyler Tachman (@Tyler_T15) February 5, 2026
McCollum had nothing but praise for his senior forward and noted that the biggest thing is Folgueiras has shown he can win basketball games.
Folgueiras is "playing like a winner now," giving the Hawkeyes another weapon at their disposal as the season begins to wind down.
During Iowa's five-game winning streak, Folueiras averaged 9.2 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, including scoring in double figures in three of the five games.
It is not only about how many points he scores, but what he does that doesn't show up in the box score.
He uses his length and athleticism to get multiple deflections and tipped balls, and he also effects opponent's shots.
Folgueiras is playing his best basketball at the right time and has become McCollum's first substitution off the bench alongside Tate Sage.
Iowa will need Folgueiras to stay hot through its next stretch of games that includes a rematch with Purdue and a rivalry matchup with Nebraska at home.