Iowa got some bad news to end the week after key reserve Alvaro Folgueiras announced he is entering the transfer portal.
Folgueiras joined the Hawkeyes last summer after starring for Robert Morris and suiting up for Spain in the 2025 FIBA Under 20 EuroBasket Tournament, and decided to re-enter the transfer portal.
Folgueiras was not in Iowa City very long, but he gave the Iowa faithful multiple memorable moments, including his go-ahead basket to knock off Florida in the Sweet 16, and the fans are sharing their support for the big man from Malaga, Spain.
True Iowa legend. If he can be consistent, he'll be a star! He gave Iowa its one shining moment! 🖤💛🏀
— Darin 'Coach' Johnston (@AnIowaCoach) April 10, 2026
A staple of the NCAA Tournament is the "One Shining Moment" recap video, and Folgueiras' shot was featured in it. It will definitely be a moment Iowa fans will remember forever.
He’s a Hawkeye Legend forever! Godspeed Al! pic.twitter.com/UZP16n6Ozg
— Hawkeye Insano (@HawkeyeInsano) April 10, 2026
After a slow start, Folgueiras cemented himself in Iowa men's basketball lore, hitting some big shots for the Hawkeyes down the stretch.
Go be great king!
— Joe Buck (@JoeBuckurself6) April 10, 2026
Sad day
Folgueiras is now looking for an opportunity elsewhere, and it is unclear what drove him to pursue a new opportunity, but Iowa fans are supporting him either way.
Thank you for everything pic.twitter.com/2XaPCm4KML
— Dr. (Pete) Zahut (@phillyfanatic17) April 10, 2026
Nothing but respect for Folgueiras as he enters the transfer portal, and there are very few fans who have negative things to say about him during his time with the program.
💔💔💔
— Tanner Eash (@tannereash1) April 10, 2026
One of multiple Iowa fans who are heartbroken by Folgueiras' exit, proving the extensive impact he had in such a short time.
Where Iowa goes from here
The program will definitely feel the weight of Folgueiras' leaving, but McCollum is not short of options at the forward position.
Iowa has Cooper Koch, Ethan Harris, Trey Thompson, Tate Sage, and Jaidyn Coon all vying for playing time at one of the forward positions, and there are also plenty of options remaining in the transfer portal.
McCollum could easily look internally for options, giving Tate Sage or Trey Thompson an expanded role, or find a portal option if the program wants to pay to bring in a top-tier forward transfer.
Even though it stings, Iowa has no shortage of forward options for next season.